D’Angelo was honored in a heartfelt private funeral service held this past weekend in Virginia, following his tragic passing at the age of 51 due to pancreatic cancer. The ceremony took place on November 1 at Saint Paul’s Baptist Church in his hometown of Richmond, where friends, family, and fellow artists gathered to celebrate the legendary singer’s life and legacy.
The order of service revealed that the funeral featured moving tribute performances from notable artists, including Stevie Wonder, as well as D’Angelo’s former bands, The Soultronics and The Vanguard. The Soultronics, which supported D’Angelo during his iconic Voodoo Tour in the early 2000s, included members such as Questlove, James Poyser, and Pino Palladino. The Vanguard was credited for their work on D’Angelo’s final album, 2014’s Black Messiah.
Bishop Ralland V. Robinson conducted the service, with a special video tribute from Pastor Jamal Bryant. The event was attended by many high-profile figures, including Lauryn Hill, DJ Premier, John Mayer, and H.E.R. The family expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support, stating in the program, “Through music, love and light, Michael D’Angelo Archer’s spirit will shine forever.”
D’Angelo’s unexpected death on October 14 sent shockwaves throughout the music community, prompting tributes from fellow artists like Beyoncé, Missy Elliott, and Barack Obama. In a heartfelt statement, his family reflected on their loss: “The shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life … 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.”
Plans for a public memorial for D’Angelo are in the works for 2026, although further details have yet to be announced.
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