Oprah Winfrey’s father, Vernon Winfrey, has passed away.
News Channel 5, based in Nashville, reported on Saturday that Vernon died at the age of 88 after battling cancer.
In addition to being known as the media mogul’s father, Vernon also had a barber shop in East Nashville and worked as a city councilman.
Vernon reportedly died on Friday night. While it has been reported that he was battling cancer before his passing, it’s unclear what type of cancer he was diagnosed with.
Additionally, his exact cause of death has not yet been confirmed.
Vernon’s passing comes only days after Oprah celebrated him on Independence Day or, as she dubbed it, “Vernon Winfrey Appreciation Day.”
Oprah along with several family members were in town on Independence Day for a day they dubbed Vernon Winfrey Appreciation Day.
She posted on social media about that celebration, a backyard barbecue, held for her father and all his friends to celebrate his life while he was still able to receive the joy.
Oprah said the event was a surprise and with the goal of hoping to make him feel loved during what was a scary time.
It’s still unconfirmed exactly what caused his death or what kind of cancer Vernon had.