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Obituary For Christopher Jamal Smith
Christopher Jamal Smith, affectionately known as Smit or Smitty, departed this life on October 4, 2025, at the Cleveland Clinic Mercy Medical Center in Canton. Born on February 27, 1990, in the vibrant city of Cleveland, OH, Chris was a soul who brought joy wherever he went.
Raised under the warmth of Barbara J. Smith-Boler and the love of his late father, Dana Austin, he found a spiritual home when he was baptized at Mt. Olive Baptist Church as a child. Chris graduated from Glen Oak High School in 2008, later pursuing his studies at Kent State’s Stark campus.
Christopher’s journey was one of resilience and compassion. He dedicated his life to uplifting others as a direct support professional at Alternative Residential Treatment, where he wielded his kindness like a beacon of hope for those navigating life’s challenges. His dedication shone brightly during his ten years with Midwest, where his efforts were celebrated for exemplary service.
Chris will be remembered for his playful spirit and infectious positivity. He loved practical joking and having fun while always creating memorable moments. He had a remarkable knack for making every person feel seen and valued. A true sports enthusiast, he was an avid champion for the Cleveland Browns, Ohio State, and the Lakers. Chris had a keen fashion sense and always enjoyed looking clean. Most importantly, he was a devoted father always striving to keep their smiles shining.
Lovingly, Chris will be remembered by his mother Barbara (Mike) Smith-Boler and his children Ameir Smith (Kalie), Laila Smith (Cierra), K'Den, K'Ior, K'Jior, and K'Orie Smith (Keyonna). His legacy will be embraced by his sisters Charmika Grimes, Shambreon Harris, Danah Austin; brother Anthony Jacobs and stepbrothers Kamron Boler and Xavier Boler.
Precious memories will be retained by his grandmother RoseAnn Bush, aunts Peggy Ann Shell, Brittany Smith, Natasha Austin, Eboni Gregoire, Naqibah Al-Kaleem, Kendra Al-Kaleem; uncles Jessie (Tina) Smith, Marcus Austin, Eric Austin, Brandon and Bryan Smith, Rashid Al-Kaleem and Abdullah Al-Kaleem. Chris also leaves a score of family and friends which includes the 34th St Crew, Dreake Baggs, his love Courtney Sherrell, along with his doting nieces and nephews.
As Chris crossed the celestial sands into eternity, he was reunited with his father Dana Austin, sons Christopher Jr., Jabari Smith; brother Stanley Calhoun; maternal grandparents J.B. and Viola Smith; paternal grandparents James Austin and Kathryn Al- Kaleem and great-Grandmother Mildred Austin, all who preceded him in death. Smit’s warmth and kindness will echo in our hearts, reminding us to laugh a little louder, love a little deeper, and cherish every moment.
As we gather together to celebrate his life, we invite you to join us in remembrance. There will be a public viewing at 10:00 AM on Saturday October 18, 2025, at Trinity Gospel Temple,1612 Tuscarawas Street, Canton. The Celebration of Life services will begin at 11:30 AM with Rev. Jessie W. Smith Jr. officiating. After the committal ceremony, Smitty will be laid to rest within the serene properties of the Evergreen Memorial Gardens.
At this most intimate time, the beloved family of Christopher Jamal Smith elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care and Professional After Care Arrangements with J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 1617 Third Street N.E, Canton, OH, 44704 Phone 330-454-3901
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Condolences & Tributes
Add A CondolenceSending our deepest sympathy and prayers to you all, family and friends. May God hold you in his arms.
My condolences to you and your family. My heart is so broken for you. All you are in my prayers.💖 ⸻
"Eternal Light"
He rests now in the Father's care, Beyond all pain, beyond despair. His spirit shines, forever bright— A guiding star in Heaven's light.
I'm so sorry for your loss love you always! Friend
Barb, I can't imagine the pain you're carrying right now. When Nia reached out and told me what happened, my heart ❤️ immediately broke for you, and I want you to know that my love, prayers, and deepest sympathy are with you. No words can truly ease this kind of loss, but please know you're surrounded by people who care deeply for you and that I'm one of them. I've always had love and respect for you, and that will never change. I know I am miles away now however know I'm here in whatever way you may ever need, today and beyond. Love you girl!
CHRIS always my boy from 34th street ,This I will always remember him. Barb I will still here for you,Remember that God loved him.
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My thoughts and prayers are with you...so sorry for your loss.
I want to send my deepest condolences to you Barbara and your family. I'm praying for you as you put your son to rest.
My heart goes out to Barb and Shambreon my God keep you in his arms and comfort you in this sad moment.
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Prayers for you and your family at this time ❤️
You will be forever missed and loved. Prayers for your family and most of all your beautiful kids. You was such a light in so many people's life. Never forgotten ❤️
Forever missed, forever loved. You were more than a friend you were family, a light that brightened every dark moment. My heart aches, but your love and laughter will never fade from my memory.
All my love and prayers sent to his beautiful mother, his family, his wonderful children, everyone who loved him and all his friends. I promise to also keep his memory and the way he touched my life alive .
To the family of Chris, Sending you love and strength as you navigate through this heartbreaking loss. Grateful to have met such a nice and respectful young man who has been around our family for many years.
Brandy Pryor Jalen and Jayvon Graves
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
