It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Tah’Ray Shamari Smith, who received his wings on November 4th, 2024. Tah’Ray was born on July 13th, 1997, in Plantation, Florida, to Michelle Dawes-Smith and Alston Smith. He was one of four siblings and was the ever-supportive brother to his siblings. He attended Coral Springs High School, and shortly after joined his father in the family business at Kitchen Floor and Bath then moved on to Costco family.
Tah’Ray is survived by his daughter Saige Smith and his siblings, Shantaya, Jo’Vonte and Dior, along with his nieces, Denym, Tru and Zya. His daughter was his greatest joy, and he showered her with gifts and affirmations; she received princess treatment from him. His daily ritual was to ensure that he gave his daughter a hug and asked her about her day. His best friend was his baby sister Dior, with whom he shared an unbreakable bond. The love that he had for his family was unprecedented and he was a pillar of strength for many, and gave the best advice to those he cared about. He loved basketball, which he played from elementary to high school, and he enjoyed listening to music and spending quality time with family and friends. He boasted a strong work ethic and it showed in the work he produced.
Tah’Ray was diagnosed with bipolar depression in 2020, and although he succumbed to the grasp of the illness at 27 years young, his fight was admirable throughout. The family is grateful for the resources and support that helped him live the best life despite experiencing some truly dark moments. He had a great spirit and his humor never wavered. He was often caught flashing his warm smile, and was truly the life of party. He was smart and witty, and adored by those around him. Though gone too soon, we are comforted in knowing that he is resting in peace.
Tah’Ray will be deeply missed, but lovingly remembered for his generosity, his vibrant spirit, and the countless lives he touched. Tah’Ray, Ray-Ray, Benji, rest well, in perfect peace. Memories of your love, corny jokes, old man dance moves and your warm snuggly hugs will live on in our hearts forever.
Please see below for visitation & religious service information. Family and friends are invited to attend the repast for Tah’Ray, immediately following the services at Awaken Church Fort Lauderdale: 1601 Lauderdale Manor Drive, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33331.
Arrangements entrusted to Boyd Panciera Family Funeral Care.
Awaken Church Fort Lauderdale
Awaken Church Fort Lauderdale
© 2024 Boyd Panciera. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Jacqueline Dawes
November 9, 2024, 4:44 am
My deepest condolences at this time of grief. May God lighten the path of the family to see this through. While words can never capture the grief we feel, I know Tah’Ray spirit will live on through the beautiful memories he left behind, with the smiles and laughter he shared. With God’s grace and mercy we will make it through. Love Jackie, Kaitlin and Kamilah
Natalie kerr
November 10, 2024, 1:20 am
My condolences to the Dawes-Smith family. I pray for strength, guidance, understanding and love. Tah ray was a shining light in many lives and will still continue to be. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on forever. We love you all and will continue to be here in your time of need. Saige❤️daddy loves you soooooo much, he displayed that in many ways and I hope the memories will give you peace. Love Nat and Kee 🙏🏽❤️🤞🏽
ANNMARIE CAMERON
November 10, 2024, 2:25 am
My handsome cuz, sleep on baby boy, no more sorrows, no more pain, now in the arms of Jesus. We love you well, but Jesus loves you best, so long baby boy
Paulette
November 10, 2024, 12:31 pm
My condolences to the Smith families, may God, continue to comfort you in this difficult time. Tar-Ray, sleep in peace I knew of you before you were even born, I have not see you in a while not since one of your Mom birthday some years ago. Your memories will forever continue in all our hearts, Sleep Sweet Boy Sleep, you will be forever be Remembered. Love Paulette.
Angel Toon
November 10, 2024, 4:37 pm
My condolences to you and your family. At this time of grief please know you are deeply in my prayers. He’s gained his wings and soared high and is with our Lord and Savior. Peace and blessings to the family and friends. 🙏 ❤️ 🙏 ❤️
Sophia Brown
November 10, 2024, 7:57 pm
I cannot even begin to express or understand the grief you are experiencing and my heart goes out to you and your family. My the Lord embrace you and keep you, may his love wash over you and may he comfort you.
My condolences
Faith Dawes- Rust
November 11, 2024, 4:37 am
Please accept my deepest condolences on the passing of Tah’Ray.
One cannot put into words the anguish you must be feeling with such a loss.
I can only encourage you to stay strong, and remember the good memories.
The Lord will see you through this difficult journey.
RIP Tah’Ray
Faith Dawes-Rust
Jennifer Taylor
November 11, 2024, 9:34 pm
My condolences to u bro and family praying for strength for u to get over this hurdle I am loss for words Prayers beat anything just hold on let him guide u
Nicole Nelson
November 12, 2024, 7:56 pm
My heart and prayers go to the Dawes/smith family. May God give you strength in your time of need and peace that surpasses all understanding.
~Nikki Nelson 🌹
Anthony J Mullings
November 13, 2024, 4:08 pm
How can a parent say goodbye to a child. It is a difficult thing. I pray God’s grace and peace be with you and the family through this difficult time.
michelle dawes
November 15, 2024, 5:54 am
Thank you all for your word of sympathy, kind gestures and love you offered in this difficult time. We love and appreciate you all.
Shellene
November 15, 2024, 5:21 pm
My deepest condolences to you and your family Michelle. I am still speechless! I saw you a few weeks ago and we spoke about our boys like we always do and you were so happy when you said the boys are doing good. That has stuck with me…..because we just never know. I have always admire the love you guys have for each other. I pray you find comfort in know that he knew he was deeply loved and cared for!
I will continue to lift you guys up in prays.
Blessings
Rashaan
November 16, 2024, 3:34 am
Words cannot express my condolences.
I pray that God wrapped his loving arms around you and your family and give you peace.
The world was blessed with him and now the heavens adore him.
Kimberly Zeigler
November 16, 2024, 4:30 pm
My deepest condolences to Cliff, Michelle, and his siblings Shanie (as we’d call her), Jo’Vonte, and Dior. Knowing of Tah’Ray before he was conceived and born I send my love to the Dawes-Smith family during this devastating time. It’s hard to even pin this message due to utter shock! It’s even harder knowing how extremely difficult this is for his family and all who experienced him. Rest in peace, and may healing come sooner than later to all who loved him❤️🙏 sending love by way of Arizona!
Margaret McDermoth
November 16, 2024, 7:13 pm
Weeping may endure for the night, but show shall come in the morning.
We can asked all we want, but only God knows.
My dear cuz Michelle, I know you are going through a lot now. To his precious daughter and her mom be strong. To your hubby and the rest of the kids, make God watch over you all in this time of mourning.
RIP Taj’Ray 🙏🏽🙏🏽😭😭😭
Monica M Harris
November 18, 2024, 11:33 pm
We are so sorry for your loss. Please know you have our love and prayers. Monica and Brianna