Teresa Giudice has confirmed that her father Giacinto Gorga has passed away at age 76.
The reality-TV star took to Instagram to share a series of photos of her father.
“My father, my protector, my hero, God took you early this morning to be with mommy, I saw you peacefully pass & I know you kept fighting for my daughters and I,” she captioned a series of snaps.
The lengthy post continued: “I have so many amazing thoughts of you, every day seeing you in the kitchen at my home, teaching my girls to cook, my partner in crime on shopping trips, your love of the shore & my travel buddy.
“You always wanted everyone to have a good time, eat great food, have a stiff drink and enjoy life. You are the absolute strongest man I know & I know you missed mommy so much but you stayed for us.
“Thank you for being the best husband, father & Nonno. Your devotion to mommy was one for the record books, you were the true example and a gentleman and devoted husband. You visited mommy every single day & would go twice for the days you missed while traveling or if you were to sick to go, my silver lining is knowing you’ll be together now. 💕
“Thank you for showing us all what true love is. Love you Papa Rest In Peace.”
Teresa’s brother, Joe Gorga, also took to Instagram to pay tribute to his father.
“I can’t believe he is gone” he captioned a photo.
The post continued: “The world lost an amazing man human being today. He was exactly what a true father and husband should be. I will miss you more than you know, But go find your wife because I know that’s all you want and all you’ve ever talked about for the past 3 years.
“You will be missed every single day. You had energy that lit up a room and everyone fell in love with you. You were truly one of a kind. I’m so happy you’re in no more pain. Rest In Peace Finally”
There is no word on the cause of death, however a representative for Teresa revealed Gorga “had been sick for a while”.
The devastating news comes after Teresa called time on her marriage with Joe Giudice late last year.
The couple, who share four children together, have reportedly been separated for some time now, however, the Real Housewives of New Jersey star has no plans to file for divorce anytime soon. According to reports, they’re both focused on spending time with their four daughters: Gia, 18, Gabriella, 15, Milania, 14, and Audriana, 10.
“They discussed their future when Teresa and the girls went to Italy in early November and they agreed that each had to move on. They are doing so amicably and very slowly,” the insider close to the reality TV pair told People.
“Joe has been out on a few dates, Teresa has not. She has been too busy with the girls, with work obligations and taking care of her father. She is happy for Joe .
“They have been very friendly with one another and are very supportive of each other’s happiness. They still love one another, but as Teresa told Andy Cohen on the WWHL special, they are separated by the Atlantic Ocean. Neither is interested in a long distance relationship.”