Vanna White, the long-time host of “Wheel of Fortune,” shared some heartbreaking news with her fans a few days ago. Her father, Herbert White Jr., passed away at the age of 96.
Vanna’s parents got divorced when she was still an infant and she was raised by her mother and her stepfather, Herbert, whom she considered a real father.
The host and model never missed a chance to remind this man how much he meant to her. During an episode of the game show which she’s been hosting since 1982, Pat Sajak mentioned Vanna’s father and asked her how he was doing, to which she replied: “He’s great… I call him every morning to say ‘good morning’ and that I love him,” adding that “He’s special.”
It is with great sadness that I tell you my 96 year old dad passed away peacefully this morning. He lived a full and happy life and will be remembered as one of the kindest and most wonderful human beings of North Myrtle Beach. I love you so much dad. RIP #love #bestdadever pic.twitter.com/cEY8fyyhOQ
— Vanna White (@TheVannaWhite) April 1, 2022
On the day she lost her biggest support in life and her father figure, Vanna wrote:
“It is with great sadness that I tell you my 96-year-old dad passed away peacefully this morning. He lived a full and happy life and will be remembered as one of the kindest and most wonderful human beings of North Myrtle Beach.”
She concludes her post writing, “I love you so much dad. RIP.”
Many fans took their time to share their condolences. “So sorry, Vanna. I’m sure you will miss him but God has a new angel and I’m sure he will watch guard over you,” one person wrote. “Sending my deepest condolences and prayers for you and your family. May your memories keep him close in your hearts,” another added.
Among those who sent their prayers was Sajak’s daughter who commented: “I am so very sorry for your loss. My whole family is thinking of you.”
On last year’s Father’s Day, Vanna shared a message of her kissing her dad and reminding him once again how much she loved him.
Our hearts go out to Vanna and her family.