Heavy D’s Family Issues Heartfelt Statement About His Passing

Heavy D’s family has issued a statement about their fallen loved one.

"Hev had great love for his family and friends; he was a kind and giving spirit who extended and shared himself with everyone who crossed his path,” his family penned to media outlets. “He had a heart of gold, was approachable, very personable and gave of himself willingly and unconditionally. Though Hev will most notably be remembered for his work both behind-the-scenes and in the forefront, he will always be remembered by us as a generous soul who remained humble and unselfish till his final days.

“Out of all Hev’s successes and accomplishments, in his eyes, his most important triumph was that of becoming a father,” the Myers family continued. “Hev’s love for his daughter Xea was profound–she was the center of his life, his heart, his soul. He often said ‘I cannot live without her and that she embodied every phenomenal attribute that he brought to this world.’ The name and the success of Heavy D will always be synonymous with music forever. He never compromised his values and artistry, and encouraged his peers to do the same. To us, Hev was the one who made us laugh, cry, sing, dance and turn a frown upside down.”

An open memorial service for the fallen rapper will be held on Thursday, followed by a private funeral on Friday, both in his hometown of Mount Vernon, New York. Heavy D, born Dwight Arrington Myers, died at the age of 44 last Tuesday. The rap legend complained about shortness of breath, before being rushed to the hospital.

“As a family, we are devastated by Hev’s passing but through our faith in God and support from family, friends and fans-we are comforted, blessed and will remain strong,” the Myers family rounded out their statement with. “His 'bear hugs' are going to be deeply missed."

Sadly, TMZ reports that Hev had been planning to shoot a video with Carl Thomas for their song, “Still Missing You.” –Jakinder Singh