The Friends actor Jennifer Aniston in a statement given to E! announced that her mother Nancy Dow has passed away. The former model was 79 years old. She said,

“It is with great sadness that my brother John and I announce the passing of our mother Nancy Dow. She was 79 years old and passed peacefully surrounded by family and friends after enduring a long illness. We ask that our family’s privacy be respected as we grieve our loss.”

This is a hard time for Dow’s family. As reported by the PEOPLE,

“No matter how complicated and difficult the relationship between Nancy and Jennifer may have been, it is heartbreaking for any daughter to lose her mother,” a source close to the family tells PEOPLE. “Nancy fought a very long battle, with many ups and downs, and Jennifer is grateful for the happy times they shared. She is pulling close to her husband and family and feels so supported by their love.”

Aniston’s parents separated when she was 9 years old but the actor continued to have a strong relationship with her mother. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, she described her mother who was both a model as well as a brilliant actress as being “gorgeous, stunning and very critical.”

Dow starred in many TV series including The Beverly Hillbillies in 1966 and The Wild Wild West in 1967. She was also seen in a drama feature film Pure.

We are extremely saddened by the news. Our prayers go with Dow’s family. May her soul rest in peace.

To keep up with all the latest celebrity news, follow us on Twitter @CelebMix .

ncG1vNJzZmiblaGyo7nIsWWcp51kt6a6zaKdnqpdlruqv9OopaxlnaTBqbHRZqWappOueqW71mabop2jYq6osYxwcGg%3D