Byron Nelson
On Sunday afternoon, Louis Vuitton shared the devastating news that Designer Virgil Abloh, artistic director of the Louis Vuitton men’s collection and CEO of the Off-White brand, passed away at the age of 41 after a private fight with “a rare, aggressive form of cancer, cardiac Angiosarcoma,” a statement read on his Instagram on Sunday, Nov. 28.
“We are devastated to announce the passing of our beloved Virgil Abloh, a fiercely devoted father, husband, son, brother, and friend,” a message posted on the designer’s Instagram account stated. “He is survived by his loving wife Shannon Abloh, his children Lowe Abloh and Grey Abloh, his sister Edwina Abloh, his parents Nee and Eunice Abloh, and numerous dear friends and colleagues.”
Per the statement, Virgil “chose to endure his battle privately since his diagnosis in 2019, undergoing numerous challenging treatments, all while helming several significant institutions that span fashion, art, and culture.”
“Virgil was driven by his dedication to his craft and to his mission to open doors for others and create pathways for greater equality in art and design,” the message continued. “He often said, ‘Everything I do is for the 17-year-old version of myself,’ believing deeply in the power of art to inspire future generations.”
