AOSP-derived ROMs like LineageOS, Copperhead, GrapheneOS and Calyx are specifically developed as alternative android distributions that do not rely on Google to function
Graphene is the best option but lineageos is also good and covers many devices. The con of lineageos is the lack of hardened security which graphene provides.
If only it wasn't developed by a complete psycho. Even Louis Rossman couldn't handle it, and he ended up refusing to use GrapheneOS because he couldn't trust someone who is so unhinged with the privacy and security of his personal device.
I'm not saying I hate GrapheneOS, I actually use it currently, but it's a good point to bring up.
strcat is the lead developer of the project, he isn't going anywhere unfortunately. If he leaves the project dies with him I'd assume (unless of course someone has the knowledge to fork it)