Ja'mehia "Mooka" Marie Smothers

Obituary For Ja'mehia "Mooka" Marie Smothers

With heavy hearts yet vibrant memories, we gather to celebrate the life of Ja'mehia Marie Smothers, a vivacious and unforgettable princess. Affectionately known as Mooka, she was born on December 12, 2006, to the union of Jessica Parker and Daeshune Smothers, Sr. in Canton, OH,

Though Ja'mehia’s journey took an unexpected detour on August 6, 2025, her presence remains deeply embossed in our lives. She was not just a bright spark; Ja'mehia was a force of nature—diminutive in size but mighty in spirit. Wherever she went, she made an impact, and there was never a dull moment in her embrace. Ja'mehia lit up every room with her bossy charm, dazzling smile, and unstoppable spirit.

Ja'mehia was more than just a name; she was an embodiment of joy. A 2025 alumna of Canton McKinley Senior High School, she studied cosmetology and shared her talent for braiding hair, crafting love with every twist and turn. Ja'mehia was recently hired as a day care assistant at RJ's Little Angels Child Care, which was fitting given the fact children adored her radiant energy. She had a passion for nurturing children which ignited joy in their innocent hearts.

Outspoken, fearless, and full of life, she embraced her passions—whether it be swimming, cooking seafood, baking confectionary delights or dancing as a rapper's hype person. A natural content creator, she loved capturing moments through selfies and was never shy in front of the camera, seizing every opportunity to immortalize the moment. She embraced every experience with infectious enthusiasm, embodying the essence of a VIP in her self-presentation and her impact on those around her. She was a fierce protector of those she loved and expressed openly how she felt.

With a heart that longed for adventure, Ja'mehia thrived on domestic or internation travel— her passport ready for new excursions, whether it was basking on exotic Caribbean beaches, exploring the vibrant streets of Mexico, walking alongside stunning shores of Turks or simply sailing upon the blue seas, this adventurer at heart stayed ready.

Ja'mehia leaves precious memories and moments with her loving parents; siblings, David Proctor, Ty'leha Smith, Harmony Bell, and Daeshune "Ju" Smothers, Jr.; cherished grandmothers, Teresa Jones and Tina Smothers; grandfathers Jessie Parker, Miles Proctor, and Eddie Smothers; great-grandmothers Linda Murillo, Leida James, Josephine Smothers; great-grandfather Nelson Cross; aunts AziaRae Smothers, Markeshia Jones; uncles Chief Officer Kellin L. Parker of the US Navy, Josh Smothers Sr., along with an expansive reach of her extended family and friends who treasured their relationship with her. Ja'mehia’s canine companions and fur babies Sexy and Iris will also grieve this tremendous loss.

In the vibrant tapestry of life, one thread stood out brightly: Ja'mehia Marie Smothers, yet continues to weave through the hearts of others love, hope, joy and peace. Join the family in honoring Ja’mehia’s brilliant life and the joy she brought into this world.

The family invites the community from 10-12noon on Tuesday August 12, 2025, for calling hours at Union Baptist Church, 413 Cornelia Ave., NE. The Christian Celebration of Life Services will begin at 12:00 noon with Rev. Byrant Williams & Rev. Richard Bennett sharing dual roles as celebrants.

It is appreciated, but not required, if those attending the services would consider wearing shades of crimson to embrace her affinity for the color red.

Ja'mehia Marie Smothers, a spirited protector, a cherished daughter, sister, niece and friend—though our hearts ache, we will celebrate her with the joy she instilled in each of us. In her honor, let us reflect on a life that was fuller than words can express—a life that sought adventure, championed joy, and embraced love unconditionally. While her time with us was short, the impact she made is eternal.

May Ja'mehia’s laughter echo within our sustaining memories and may every adventure she dreamed of continue in the realms beyond. She brought laughter and love wherever she went, echoing the message of joy and resilience.

At this most intimate time, the beloved family of Ja'mehia “Mooka” Marie Smothers 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