Jennifer Garner has had a remarkable career in Hollywood, yet she has always remained closely connected to her parents.

The actress recently shared on social media that her father had passed away at the age of 85.

Stephen Garner was the father of Jennifer Garner, Susannah Kay Garner Carpenter, and Melissa Garner Wylie.

He was married to their mother, Pat Garner, for nearly 60 years.

Jennifer commemorated her parents’ 59th wedding anniversary in a heartfelt blog post on January 1, 2024.

“Happy 59th wedding anniversary to my loving and sweet parents!” she wrote. “Thank you, Mom and Dad, for ensuring my sisters and I had a safe and happy childhood.”

Born in Texas and raised in Charleston, West Virginia, Jennifer’s father, William, worked as a chemical engineer for Union Carbide, as reported by the Hindustan Times.

Reflecting on her father’s passing, Jennifer shared more insights into his peaceful departure.

“My dad died peacefully on Saturday afternoon,” she wrote. “We were with him as he passed, singing ‘Amazing Grace.’ Did we help him cross over or scare him away? That’s a good question. The passing of an 85-year-old who lived a full, joyous life is not a tragedy, but I realize that grief can arise unexpectedly and at any time.”

Concluding her message, she noted, “Today is a day to be grateful.”