William LaShae Bose

William Philyaw, born July 21, 1980, and passed on March 4, 2026, was a devoted father to his 11-year-old son, Robbie, who was the light of his life. Robbie was named for William’s grandfather, the late Robert Vernon Philyaw, who had a profound impact on him. William shared a strong co-parenting bond with Robbie’s mother, Catey, and was deeply committed to their beautiful twin daughters, Paris and London, of whom he was supremely proud. He is survived by his loving mother, Gwendolyn Y. Philyaw, and his brother, Amiri Herring, with whom he shared a close bond. He also leaves behind his grandmother, Gwen M. Philyaw; his aunts and uncles, Jacqueline Hoskins, Noreen Clark, Vernon Philyaw, and Michael Philyaw; his first cousins Jamil and Jarrett Baker and Rob Philyaw; and a large, close-knit family that shaped him and was shaped by him.

A graduate of Taylor Allderdice High School, William attended the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, where he nurtured the creative gifts evident since childhood. He loved music and embraced his talents as a rapper, performing across the northeast and throughout the country under the name KuStom Karboso. His lyrics spoke honestly about the struggles young men face. Though he possessed many talents, graphic design was his true passion. William was a creator in every sense—an artist who pushed boundaries, experimented boldly, and produced work that made people stop, look, and feel something. He was always refining his craft, dreaming bigger, and chasing the next idea or breakthrough.

Even during his illness, William continued to create. He founded Cancer Contenders, a cancer-advocacy initiative born from his own fight and fueled by his desire to help others facing similar battles. His family plans to carry on this mission in his honor.

William’s spirit remains vibrantly alive in everyone he touched. His children carry his love and laughter. His brother and cousins carry his strength and resilience. Though his earthly journey has ended, those who knew him take comfort in knowing he is now free from pain, held in God’s eternal embrace, and surrounded by the ancestors who welcomed him home. His light continues to guide them, and his art continues to inspire.