The cause of death of Chris Anne Affleck, the mother of actors Ben Affleck and Casey Affleck, has been confirmed nearly two months after her passing. Chris died on June 2 at the age of 83, following a battle with pancreatic cancer.

Her family publicly announced her death on July 24, remembering her not only as a devoted mother but also as a lifelong educator and civil rights advocate.

Cause of Death Revealed

According to a death certificate obtained by PEOPLE, Chris Affleck died from cardiopulmonary arrest while visiting one of her sons’ residences. The document also lists pancreatic adenocarcinoma as a significant contributing condition.

Reports indicate she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in December and was given a prognosis of approximately six months. No autopsy was performed.

A Life Dedicated to Education and Service

Born Christopher Anne Boldt in New York City in 1942, Chris graduated from Harvard University and spent 35 years working as a public school teacher before retiring in 2008.

She was also deeply involved in the Civil Rights Movement, volunteering during the 1964 Freedom Summer campaign in Mississippi, where she helped teach literacy classes and supported voter registration efforts.

Supporting Her Sons’ Hollywood Careers

Chris played an important role in encouraging her sons’ early interest in acting. She reportedly helped Ben Affleck make industry connections, including introducing him to a casting director she had known from her time at Harvard.

Both Ben and Casey have spoken over the years about the influence their mother had on their lives, crediting her with encouraging curiosity, education, and independent thinking.

Remembered by Family

Chris was married to Timothy Affleck, and together they welcomed Ben in 1972 and Casey in 1975. Although the couple later divorced, she remained a central figure in her children’s lives.

She is survived by her two sons and five grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy centered on education, public service, and family.

A Lasting Legacy

While many knew Chris Affleck as the mother of two Academy Award-winning actors, those closest to her remember a woman whose greatest passion was helping others. Her decades in education and commitment to civil rights reflected a lifetime devoted to making a difference beyond Hollywood.