Jennifer Aniston’s Estranged Mother Nancy Dow Dies At 79

Jennifer Aniston announced the death of her mother, Nancy Dow, in a statement released Wednesday.

Jennifer Aniston’s Mother Dies

“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,” Aniston, 47, told People magazine in a statement. “We ask that our family’s privacy be respected as we grieve our loss.”

Dow had been in poor health since suffering a stroke in 2011, followed by another in 2012. Dow, who was unable to walk or speak, was rushed to a hospital late on Sunday and passed away soon thereafter, according to RadarOnline.

Dow had been married to Aniston’s father, soap opera star John Aniston, from 1975-1980, divorcing when the Friends star was 9 years old. Aniston has been open about having a difficult relationship with her mother, and had periods of estrangement in which they did not speak to one another.

“She was critical. She was very critical of me. Because she was a model, she was gorgeous, stunning. I wasn’t,” Aniston told The Hollywood Reporter last year, explaining one reason for their rift. “I never was. I honestly still don’t think of myself in that sort of light, which is fine. She was also very unforgiving. She would hold grudges that I just found so petty.”

Despite the difficult relationship, Aniston is said to be fondly remembering the good times she had with her mother.

“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 told 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.”