Gabrielle Union feels 'bewildering' mix of emotions after her dad died following dementia battle Gabrielle Union has revealed her father Sylvester 'Cully' Union Jr died on April 3 aged 81. 6 April 2026 Gabrielle Union feels a "bewildering" mix of relief and heartbreak after her dad's death. Gabrielle Union has reflected on her father's death The 53-year-old actress has revealed her father Sylvester 'Cully' Union Jr died aged 81 on April 3 following a long battle with dementia, and she has reflected on his lengthy struggle with the illness.