Detroit’s Joseph Gadson passes away

Joseph Gadson (Detroit, USA)

Photo by Joseph Gadson (Facebook)The Detroit chess community is mourning the devastating loss of Joseph Nathan Gadson. He died yesterday a day shy of his 36th birthday from the complications of gastroparesis, a rare disease that primarily affects the gastrointestinal system.

Joseph stated that he was hospitalized in August 2020 with severe stomach pains and extreme nausea. After repeated visits to the hospital, doctors discovered his condition. With mounting expenses exceeding $30,000, Gadson made a GoFundMe appeal to assist in his financial situation and described his dire situation. Unfortunately, he was unable to find the right treatments to reverse the condition. He leaves behind his two daughters (Autumn and Summer) of whom he had custody.

His close friend Derek Wilder hosted the Detroit Killers podcast and Joe would co-host and speak on a number of issues. One of the most interesting segments was the debate on the strongest African-American chess masters in Detroit history. He would also show his passion for various topics including sports, music, and politics. It is a huge loss for chess as Joe was a likable and very engaging person. He will be missed in the chess community, but particularly Detroit and the National Blitz League.

Shown here at the 2003 Chicago Open,
Joseph Gadson was touted as a rising talent, making Expert at age 18.
Photo by Daaim Shabazz.

Joseph Gadson

(August 14, 1985 – August 15, 2021)
James H. Cole Funeral Home
16100 Schaefer Hwy
Detroit, MI 48235
Public Visitation: Monday, August 23rd, 2pm-9pm
Funeral Service: Tuesday, August 24th, 11am-12pm
Repast: Immediately following, details TBD