DJ the mandrill, a 21-year resident of the Reid Park Zoo, born there in August of 1991, has died. He was euthanized by zoo staff yesterday, after they determined that it was "clear he would no longer have a reasonable quality of life." Despite numerous health issues over the years, DJ's lifespan actually exceeded that of the average mandrill—a testament both to his hardiness and the work of the Reid Park staffers.

In honor of DJ's passing, we've decided to include the timeless Sarah McLachlan song "Angel" in today's post in his memory. May you be as colorful in the hereafter as you were on earth, DJ.

Read the Reid Park Zoo release announcing DJ's death below the jump.