During a deeply personal moment shared at a family memorial service, Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner’s 15-year-old child publicly introduced a new name—Fin Affleck. The heartfelt announcement took place during the memorial honoring Jennifer Garner’s father, William Jack Garner, who passed away in April 2024 at the age of 85.
The service was streamed live on the official Facebook page of the Christ Church United Methodist in Charleston, West Virginia, where the Garner family has long-standing ties. Fin, who is the middle child of the former Hollywood couple, delivered a touching Bible reading and quietly introduced their preferred name in front of family, friends, and members of the congregation.
A Thoughtful Introduction
The moment came during a portion of the memorial where family members paid tribute to the late William Garner. While stepping up to the podium, the teen respectfully said:
“Hello, my name is Fin Affleck,” before reading a passage from Proverbs 16:8, which states:
“Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues without right.”
The passage underscored the day’s reflective tone, emphasizing values of integrity, humility, and love—traits that those close to William Garner say he exemplified throughout his life.
The subtle, sincere introduction of the name “Fin” marked a personal milestone for the Affleck-Garner family and was received with warmth and support by those present.
The Garner Family’s Legacy and Tribute
William Jack Garner, the father of actress Jennifer Garner, was a respected community figure in West Virginia. In an obituary published on the Snodgrass Funeral Home website, he was remembered as a dedicated family man, U.S. Navy veteran, and retired chemical engineer. His passing was met with an outpouring of condolences and tributes from both the local community and fans of his daughter’s work.
Jennifer Garner has spoken publicly on several occasions about her deep connection to her family roots and upbringing in Charleston. She frequently expresses gratitude for her parents’ influence on her life and values.
At the service, Garner delivered a moving eulogy honoring her father’s legacy and the impact he had on multiple generations of their family.
A Respectful Step Forward
Fin Affleck’s decision to use a new name during a public family gathering was not accompanied by any formal statement from either parent. However, the act itself reflects the supportive environment within the family and their ongoing commitment to honoring each child’s individuality.
While members of the public have noted that Fin has previously been seen in casual photos carrying a backpack embroidered with the name “Fin,” this memorial speech marks the first time the name was publicly introduced by the child themselves.
No official details have been released by the Affleck or Garner families regarding any legal name change or personal identification beyond this moment of self-introduction.
Public Attention and Responsible Reporting
It is important to note that while the personal lives of public figures often attract media attention, coverage involving children and minors should be handled with care, respect, and factual accuracy. Professional journalism standards, as well as guidance from organizations such as the American Psychological Association (APA) and GLAAD, emphasize the importance of respecting a person’s name and pronouns as part of their identity.
To date, neither Ben Affleck nor Jennifer Garner has commented publicly on Fin’s announcement. Both parents are known for being protective of their children’s privacy and have previously advocated for laws and ethical standards that shield children of celebrities from excessive media exposure.
Family and Co-Parenting
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner were married from 2005 to 2018 and share three children: Violet, Fin, and Samuel. Despite their separation, both actors have frequently expressed their commitment to co-parenting in a respectful and united way.
Garner has described motherhood as her most important role and is often seen participating in school events, community service, and public advocacy for children’s health and literacy. Affleck has also spoken in interviews about the importance of being present in his children’s lives and continuing to support their growth and choices.
Their approach to co-parenting has received praise for being cooperative and child-focused, with both parents prioritizing their family’s emotional well-being.
Public and Media Reactions
In recent years, the entertainment industry has become more inclusive and understanding of diverse gender identities and expressions. While individuals in the public eye may choose to share personal milestones on their own terms, media organizations and online audiences are encouraged to approach such topics with empathy, accuracy, and respect.
It is worth noting that Fin Affleck is among a growing number of young individuals navigating their identities in public spaces. The importance of a supportive home environment, community acceptance, and responsible media representation cannot be overstated.
Broader Cultural Context
As society continues to evolve in its understanding of identity, many families—regardless of fame—are learning how to support their children in a rapidly changing world. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children benefit greatly from environments where their identities are acknowledged and affirmed.
Organizations such as GLSEN, The Trevor Project, and PFLAG also offer resources for families and educators seeking to better understand and support LGBTQ+ youth. The public response to children expressing themselves in age-appropriate, respectful ways is increasingly one of acceptance and encouragement.
Moving Forward with Compassion
Fin’s simple but powerful introduction during a solemn family event highlights how personal expression can be interwoven into meaningful moments of remembrance and reflection. Rather than becoming a point of public debate, it offers an opportunity to discuss how families can lovingly support each other during times of transition and change.
The Affleck and Garner families have long maintained a reputation for handling public attention with grace, and this moment was no exception. As media continues to cover stories involving high-profile individuals and their families, the emphasis must remain on dignity, consent, and truth.
Sources:
- Christ Church United Methodist – Charleston, WV
- Snodgrass Funeral Home Obituary for William Jack Garner
- GLAAD – Media Guide on Gender Identity
- American Academy of Pediatrics – Supporting Transgender and Gender-Diverse Youth
- GLSEN – Safe Schools for All
- The Trevor Project – Crisis Intervention and Support for LGBTQ Youth
