Will Smith on James Avery: 'Every Young Man Needs an Uncle Phil'

Following James Avery's death last week, Will Smith has paid tribute to the actor on his Facebook Page.

"Some of my greatest lessons in acting, living and being a respectable human being came through James Avery," Smith wrote Sunday night. "Every young man needs an Uncle Phil. Rest in peace."

Smith attached the photo (seen left) of him, Avery and his Fresh Prince of Bel-Air co-stars the last time they were together, reportedly in December 2011.

Avery died on Dec. 31 due to complications from open heart surgery. He was 68.