Rashad Akil Black

Rashad Akil Black was born to Nanet Hamlin and Akil Black on October 27, 1983. He passed away peacefully on September 4, 2025. He was affectionately known as "Shaddy Mac" To his friends.

Education

Rashad grew up in the Wilkinsburg School District, attending Kelly School and Wilkinsburg Junior/Senior High School. Outside of school, he was an avid sports player. Football and baseball were his favorites. He developed many life-long friends doing these activities. His Mom became "Mom Nan" to quite a few during these activities. He graduated with Honors in 2001 and went on to continue his education at Norfolk State University in Virginia. Upon completion, he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and Computer Science. 

Career

Rashad returned to his roots in Wilkinsburg and began working in the Wilkinsburg School District. He later served in the IT Department at UPMC Children's Hospital before joining the University of Pittsburgh Sports Department as an IT Specialist. At the time of his passing, he was working in the Information Technology Department of PNC Bank in downtown Pittsburgh.

Life & Passions

Sports better was Shady's lottery-he loved placing bets on teams in and outside of the country. Japanese baseball was one of his favorites. Before the passing of his Granny, Geraldine Robinson, the two shared a special bond as regular visitors at casinos.

Anyone knowing Shaddy Mac knew how much he loved his shades and a fresh paid of "J's". Thanks to his mom, who would get up early on Saturday mornings to secure the newest Jordans, he developed a lifelong passion for sneakers. His style was unmatched-Polo shirts and snapbacks, always worn with confidence and flair.

He was a talented rapper who poured his heart into his music and shared his days with his beloved dogs- Tebow, Remy, and his newest pup, Pluto. One of his favorite hobbies was grilling and "throwing down" in the kitchen. He took pride in cooking for family and friends. His fashion sense, creativity, and love for music, food, pets, and sports brought joy to those around him. He will be remembered with fondness.

Family

He is survived by his loving parents, Nanet Hamlin and Akil Black; his grandmother, Beatrice Black, his sister, Tia (Michael) Taylor, and his great-aunt, Sara (Robert) LeGrande. He also leaves to cherish his memory his aunts and uncles: Wendell Blakely and Cheryl Glider, Gene (Juanita) Hamlin, Rochelle (Lionel) Young, Charles (Lisa) Robinson, Carl (Janeen) Robinson, Kareen Shakoor, Angela Black, Debora (Steve) Kapturkiewicz, and Nedra (James) Wilkins. Rashad's memory will also live on through a host of cousins, his nieces, nephews, and countless friends who loved him dearly. 

Preceded in Death

Rashad was preceded in death by his grandparents, Carl and Geraldine Robinson; his grandfathers, Gene Hamlin and Willie Black, Sr.; and a host of other relatives and friends who welcomed him home with love. 

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