Will Smith Breaks Silence On Uncle Phil Death ... He Made Me a Better Man

Will Smith has finally opened up about the death of his TV dad James Avery ... saying the guy who played Uncle Phil on "Fresh Prince" made him a more "respectable human being."

Smith just posted a tribute to his co-star on Facebook ... writing, "Some of my greatest lessons in Acting, Living and being a respectable human being came through James Avery."

He added, "Every young man needs an Uncle Phil. Rest in Peace."

Thought Willl made him a better Actor.

R.I.P. ...Uncle Phil , my kids were addicted to this sitcom ...