Tara Reid announces father's death: He was 'my entire world'

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Tara Reid is mourning the death of her beloved father.

The 41-year-old actress dedicated a loving post to dad Thomas Reid on Instagram after learning of his death Friday.

"Today, I've received terrible news that my father, Thomas Reid, has passed away," Reid wrote. "He was a man full of life, love, wisdom, and strength. He was not only fun and in good spirits, but he was also one of the best story tellers I've ever heard.

"My dad was so supportive, kind, strong, and my hero. He was my heart, my soul, and my entire world. I love you and will miss you so much daddy! #RIPDADDYREID," she added.

Thomas Reid was 76 and is survived by Reid, wife Donna Reid and his three other children, Tom, Colleen and Patrick Reid, according to People. The actress had recently seen her dad over the Christmas holiday.

"At home at my parents for christmas and I just saw my doggie again. I love my dog!" she wrote Dec. 23 before later adding, "Merry Christmas I love you all! Feels so good be around my family."

Reid is known for the American Pie films, Josie and the Pussycats and Van Wilder. She has since played April Wexler in SyFy's Sharknado TV movies, and last portrayed the role in Sharknado: The 4th Awakens.

"It's not like you really have to get in shape," the actress said on The Jenny McCarthy Show podcast in July. "It's Sharknado. It's, like, fake sharks. They're rubber ... I did yoga during the week and I climb by my house. Nothing crazy, nothing strenuous."