11/13/2025
Keep this family in your prayers please. Such a tragedy ❤️❤️❤️
As the President of Heroes in the Sky Foundation making this post makes me sick to my stomach. We awoke this morning to learning of the senseless and tragic passing of our Co-Founder, D’Angelo Shaw “Akon” as I knew him.
D’Angelo was more than the Co-Founder, he believed in Heroes in the Sky before we officially announced our Charity in 2024. He and I led ceremonies together in 2021 that would later develop into the blueprint of what Heroes in the Sky would become. I even remember him having a major influence in developing our name , the name that so many recognize today in the veteran and first responder community.
I remember when he was in the hospital in Statesboro and I would travel and visit him multiple times a week to check on him. He would always greet me with a smile regardless of how he felt.
His genuine heart and contagious smile was seen and felt by all that met him. He was the most caring, funniest , and genuine soul. He was always late , but he was always there. D’Angelo loved his Funkos and Comic Con outings with his daughters.
D’Angelo was more than a friend, he became family. He attended major events and weddings and was there to support those he believed in and trusted. He was a proud veteran, but even prouder father and grandfather. His family was his lifeline and motivation to be a great person.
D’Angelo’s drive to become successful involved pulling himself off the streets after his medical retirement from the Army in 2017. He would constantly go to a bar to get wifi to complete his homework assignments. D’Angelo’s work ethic and dedication were evident in his career at Planet Fitness. He started at ground level, taking on any role that was available and always making sure to show up, regardless of the challenges he faced.
Through his consistent presence and willingness to do whatever was needed, he demonstrated a commitment to excellence that did not go unnoticed. Over time, his perseverance and reliability allowed him to advance within the company, ultimately paving the way for his successful career in management at Planet Fitness.
D'Angelo , may you rest in peace. The void left by your absence will never be filled. Your work will be continued in everything we do.
I will always remember our conversations in the hospital when I would bring you Gatorade, and our outreach continues because of your dedication to the cause .
Your favorite event is coming up in February, and we will honor you to the fullest.
Thank you for believing in James Collins when I didn’t have any titles to my name.
Thank you for believing in our team .
Thank you for being our best friend and supporter.
Thank you for the family you became, and the most sincerest person we have ever met.
The Heroes in the Sky Team will forever honor you in all we do!.
