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D’Angelo’s legacy will continue.
On Monday, Nov. 24, it was announced that D’Angelo’s estate will launch announced the D’Angelo Pancreatic Cancer Fund, “a global philanthropic initiative,” which will honor the late soul legend — who died after a private battle with pancreatic cancer at the age of 51 on Oct. 14, according to a press release.
In partnership with the Black Boy Joy Foundation (BBJF), the fund will “advance research, expand awareness, and support families affected by one of the most lethal forms of cancer,” per a release.
“As a visionary artist, cultural pioneer, and devoted father, D’Angelo’s influence transcended music and defined a generation. Today with the Black Boy Joy Foundation x Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, we formally launched this initiative to honor his life and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer,” the estate said in a statement.
The philanthropic initiative, led by D’Angelo’s daughter Imani Archer, brother Luther Archer and the founder of BBJF Jean-Claude Kali, shows the family is committed “to transforming our profound loss into meaningful action.”
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“Pancreatic cancer remains one of the most formidable and deadly cancers worldwide, with a survival rate of just 13%.
In a statement, Kali noted that pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest cancers worldwide “with a survival rate of just 13%.”
“Black men are disproportionately affected, facing higher incidence and mortality rates, compounded by systemic inequities that delay diagnosis and limit access to treatment. By raising awareness and funding research, we can begin to change this reality,” he continued.
According to the release, D’Angelo’s foundation “will direct contributions to rigorously vetted, high-impact research and programs with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.”
That will include “cutting-edge medical research, early detection studies, support programs for families in high-risk communities, advocacy and awareness initiatives focused on Black men and boys,” per the release.
Imani added in a statement that losing her dad, who was “a truly one-of-a-kind soul” to pancreatic cancer “shattered our world.”
“But even in this dark time, we hold on to hope: by sharing his story and fighting back, we can save other families from experiencing this same loss,” she said.
Imani concluded, “My father’s passing will not be in vain, and through this work, his light will continue to guide and uplift others.”
On Oct. 14, D’Angelo (born Michael Eugene Archer) died in New York City after a private battle with pancreatic cancer, a source confirmed to PEOPLE.
The source told PEOPLE that D’Angelo “was in hospice for two weeks but had been in the hospital for months.”
In a statement to PEOPLE, his family said, “The shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life. After a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer, we are heartbroken to announce that Michael D’Angelo Archer, known to his fans around the world as D’Angelo, has been called home, departing this life today, October 14th, 2025.”
It continued: “We are saddened that he can only leave dear memories with his family, but we are eternally grateful for the legacy of extraordinarily moving music he leaves behind. We ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time but invite you all join us in mourning his passing while also celebrating the gift of song that he has left for the world.”
