William Daniel "Will" Shamanski

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William "Will" Daniel Shamanski, who died Wednesday, July 17, 2025, at the age of 20 following a tragic car accident.

Born in Atlanta, Georgia, Will was known for his goofy humor, kind heart, and infectious energy. He had a passion for cars that ran deep-he loved working on them, enhancing them, and driving them. One of his greatest joys was attending car meets, where he found community and excitement in sharing what he loved most. Will formed deep bonds with friends in these communities. He found joy and belonging in those connections.

Will also had a deep love for baseball. From a young age, he spent countless hours practicing, taking lessons, and playing the game with unwavering dedication. Baseball wasn't just a sport to him-it was a passion and a discipline that shaped his early years. Whether he was on the field or practicing in the backyard, Will's determination and enthusiasm were evident in every swing, every throw, and every game. He built relationships with his teammates and his coaches, who helped shape the man he was.

Will attended St. Benedict's Episcopal School for elementary and middle school, and later, Campbell High School. He graduated in the Class of 2023, and he was so proud of his diploma. Recently, Will had been accepted to Chattahoochee Technical College, planning to join the mechanics program to pursue his passion for automobile repairs and rebuilds. He wanted to continue to grow doing what gave him so much joy.

Will is survived by his loving mother, Elizabeth Anne Shamanski, and father, Daniel Martin Shamanski, Jr.; his sister, Catherine Elizabeth Shamanski; his maternal grandmother, Wanda G. Dicks; his aunts and uncles, Jennifer Vogel, Dana and Joe Benson, and Alison and Jason Hair; his cousins Drew Vogel, Amanda Vogel, Emma Benson, Jackson Benson, Olivia Benson, Vika Hair, and Thomas Hair. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Thomas Henry Dicks, Jr, and his paternal grandmother and grandfather, Colonel and Mrs. Daniel (Dorothy) Shamanski, Sr.

Will loved quietly and lived largely. He was deeply loved by his family and friends, and he will be missed more than words can express. Though our time with him was far too short, the love he gave and the light he shared will live on forever in our hearts.

True to his giving spirit, compassion and selfless love for others, Will has become an organ donor - his final act of generosity, offering hope and healing to others even in his passing. Will gave to others without hesitation, and now his donation will give 88 other people a chance for a better, healthier life.

In lieu of flowers, St. Benedict's Episcopal School is establishing a Wellness and Support Fund to honor Will's memory. This fund is dedicated to supporting the emotional well-being of children in their middle years. The fund will provide resources such as curriculum, guest speakers, and professional development focused on social emotional learning and the support of children.

To further honor Will's memory, the family encourages friends to take a moment to do something he loved-whether it's going for a drive, spending an afternoon fishing (a recent new hobby for him), lending a helping hand, throwing a baseball or sharing a laugh with someone who needs it.

Additionally, the family encourages you to leave a message on his Kudoboard and share stories or pictures so we can continue to celebrate everything Will was to so many: https://www.kudoboard.com/boards/LqdyaVLf

A celebration of Will's life will be held on Saturday, July 26th at 4:00 PM at St. Benedict's Episcopal Church located at 2160 Cooper Lake Road, Smyrna, GA 30080. A reception will follow at the Vinings Estates Clubhouse - 655 Crescent Ridge Trail, Mableton, GA 30126. Please consider ride sharing to the reception as parking is limited and street parking is not permitted in the neighborhood. All who knew and loved Will are welcome to attend to honor and celebrate the beautiful soul he was and the light he continues to shine.