From Pastor Sarah at Church of the Good Shepherd UCC in Albuquerque:
Dear Church Family,
I write you to share the heartbreaking news of the death of our dear friend and associate church member Shawn Dromgoole. Yesterday, Shawn's family found him at home unresponsive. He was rushed to the hospital, where doctors found he had high blood sugar and a high fever. While in critical care, Shawn had a heart attack, and they were tragically not able to bring him back.
The family is still in shock--as am I, but I will let you know as soon as I know more about funeral plans or places folks can send flowers or donate in his honor.
Shawn Marcus Dromgoole II was a proud 34-year-old Nashville native, who called the same neighborhood home for his entire life—a place his family has cherished for over 50 years. However, in 2020, a simple walk in his own community became a source of fear. With courage, Shawn shared his feelings on Nextdoor and Facebook, and what happened next was nothing short of extraordinary. Neighbors from all walks of life quickly rallied behind him, offering to walk beside him, behind him, and alongside him. On June 4th, 2020, Shawn showed up for what he thought would be a solitary walk—but instead, he was met with the overwhelming support of over 75 neighbors. This powerful moment sparked the beginning of the #WeWalkWithShawn movement. Since that day, Shawn has been organizing walks, both locally and nationally, to stand in solidarity with others who share similar fears. His mission was clear: to unite neighborhoods and inspire people to connect with one another, transcending race and background. Beyond his walks, Shawn became a sought-after speaker, sharing his message of unity and empowerment at churches, schools, and community events. Through the foundation he established, More Than A Walk Inc., Shawn was dedicated to building stronger, more connected communities—one step at a time.
Shawn came to Church of the Good Shepherd to do a walk with us for the first time in September of 2021. He loved his church family here, and he came back to walk with us every year after that! He connected us with our neighbors at Saint Chads, our neighbors at UNM, and our interfaith neighbors as well. Shawn also preached dynamic sermons that taught us about God's unfailing love for us.
Please keep his mother, Lynetra, his sister Amber, and all who loved Shawn in prayer.
'Cause if it a'int love... it a'int God...
Pastor Sarah