A Legacy of Light, Leadership & Love
Davarie Armstrong
Davarie Armstrong was a vibrant, athletic, and magnetic young leader whose presence lit up every room and every life he entered. Known for his infectious smile, uplifting spirit, and unwavering confidence, Davarie believed that “your vibe attracts your tribe.” He lived this truth, surrounding himself with positivity and purpose while inspiring unity across cultures and communities.
A multi-sport athlete at South High School and longtime member of the Pirates football organization, Davarie excelled in football, basketball, and track, earning varsity letters and scholarship opportunities. His #5 and #27 jerseys have been retired in his honor, commemorating his excellence both on and off the field.
Beyond athletics, Davarie was a dedicated student, a two-time Black Male Summit Scholar, and a passionate community servant. From volunteering at block parties and toy drives to participating in Comcast Cares Day and Habitat for Humanity projects, he embodied service. His faith, strengthened through Young Life, guided his leadership and family-centered values.
Tragically taken by gun violence in 2020, Davarie’s legacy continues to uplift and empower through the DJ Armstrong Foundation. Scholarships, youth sports tournaments, a 5K run, and A Mother's Love, a support group for grieving mothers, all honor his enduring impact. A mural at South High School, a scholarship in his name, and community efforts to rename All-City Stadium after him are lasting testaments to a life lived with purpose.
Davarie Armstrong was more than an athlete; he was a changemaker, a peacemaker, and a reminder that greatness lives on through love, action, and legacy.
Our Purpose, Our Promise
The DJ Armstrong Foundation was born from heartbreak and built on hope. After the tragic loss of her son Davarie to gun violence, founder Angel Shabazz turned her grief into purpose, creating a space where healing and transformation are possible. Through prevention, responsiveness, and advocacy, we work to end youth violence while supporting those forever changed by it.
Our mission is twofold: to empower young people and families through scholarships, mentorship, mental health support, and grief assistance, and to walk alongside grieving mothers through A Mother’s Love, a healing community rooted in faith, empathy, and shared understanding.
A Mother’s Love brings together women who have experienced the unimaginable: the loss of a child. In a safe, intimate, and non-judgmental space, we offer emotional support, spiritual connection, and resources for healing. From peer meetups to mental health counseling, we provide a lifeline of hope and community so no mother has to grieve alone.
Together, we are building safer, stronger, and more compassionate communities, one life, one family, one mother at a time.
