"Death is something I don't want to believe in right now because you're everywhere that the Earth is."

- Dante Goodrich Giray, For My One & Only Brother

The family of Achebe Chinua Thomas (Lamar) are gathering community support to honor his extraordinary life and spirit following his unexpected transition on Friday, October 3rd, 11 days before his 54th birthday.

The family is raising funds to bring together Achebe’s loved ones and community for this celebration and to cover arrangements to usher his spirit forward as he would have wished. Funds will directly support travel, lodging, his memorial, and transition-in-life expenses.

On Sunday, October 12th, we will gather in music, drumming, dancing, prayer, shared stories, and capoeira to celebrate Achebe’s light and legacy. This will be a day to honor his journey — a rising in power, a return to the ancestors, and a continuation of his boundless spirit.

This GoFundMe is organized by Achebe's mother, Dr. Linda Goodrich, and family, who wish to thank all who have reached out with love, prayers, and memories. Your contributions, in any amount, are deeply appreciated.

Achebe has been a beloved thread in the fabric of this community, a fearless, spiritually guided practitioner of Ifa, a devoted member and teacher of capoeira angola, and a walking embodiment of joy, rhythm, and truth. As our mayor of Lakeshore, his presence will be missed at Peet’s Coffee (his unofficial office), rodas, ferries crossing the bay, festivals, and house parties. Through movement, music, laughter, and love, Achebe reminded everyone around him that spirit lives in the body, that the drum is a teacher, and that community is sacred.

As we prepare to honor Achebe, we invite you to join us in offering not only donations but also your prayers, love, rhythm, and stories to lift his spirit and surround his family with strength and grace.

Asé.