Actress Bela Padilla is grieving the loss of her father, Cornelio Sullivan, who passed away peacefully in his sleep. Despite her sadness, Padilla finds solace in knowing that her father did not suffer.
Padilla took to Instagram on Monday evening to share photos with her late father, captioning them, “Life really is a series of highs and lows.”
“My only consolation in all of this is that he wasn’t in pain and he hopefully was dreaming of the happy times in his life,” said Padilla.
Her sibling, Ceri, also contributed a touching sentiment, stating, “My dad loved us, his children, deeply. And he also loved himself. My dad loved life and lived his life to the fullest he could.”
Bela Padilla reflected on the qualities she admired in her father, including his knowledge of beautiful spots in the country, his enjoyment of live music in bars, and his problem-solving skills.
“I love the water and I dive deeply because he taught me to swim and be fearless in the water at such an early age,” Padilla added.
The actress also highlighted her father’s resolute nature, saying, “He never took no for an answer when he believed something was right and he made sure that everybody knew what ‘right’ was.”
According to Padilla, her father was “very empathetic but still madly funny,” and he “gave the best hugs, never letting go first.”
She concluded by saying that the memories of her father would sustain her and her family until they meet again.
“I will always wish for one more day, but that would be unfair. For now, and until paradise comes, the memories will tide us over,” said Padilla.