Will Smith's father dies, actor's ex-wife pays tribute in touching post

Will Smith's father, Willard Carroll Smith Sr, has passed away.

While the actor, 48, hasn't released a statement about the sad news just yet, his ex-wife, Sheree Fletcher, confirmed Willard's passing as she paid tribute to him in an Instagram post.

"We're gonna miss you Daddio! You lived & played by your own rules...you truly were 1 of a kind! You instilled discipline, and a work ethic that has created a legacy in your honor! (Pic left to right: Will Smith II; Will Smith III (Trey); Will Smith I (Daddio!) #RIPDaddio #donttellmetheresnothingyoucantdo #WillSMITH1", Sheree, 48, captioned the photo.

In the throwback snap, Will and his dad are all smiles as they wrap their arms around the Concussion star and Sheree's son, Tre Smith, who is now 23. Sheree and Will were married from 1992 to 1995.

Will has said in the past that his dad inspired him to be an involved father, saying, "I look at my father and how he was able to keep four kids fed and clothed and still managed to find time to spend with us."

According to People, Will's father was the owner of a Philadelphia refrigeration firm.