Nicole Renee Smith

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Nicole Renee Smith, who departed this world on March 27, 2026, in the loving presence of her family after a courageous battle with lupus. Born on January 12, 1957, in Detroit, Michigan, Nicole was a beacon of love, resilience, and dedication, leaving an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her. Nicole was the cherished daughter of Joan Smith and Andre Parks, who preceded her in death, along with her beloved brother, Dion Smith. From the very beginning, Nicole exhibited a profound compassion and strength that would guide her throughout her life. She met her soulmate, John Smith, at Cody High School, where their love story began. They married in 1970 and shared a remarkable journey filled with love, respect, and shared dreams. A proud graduate of Cody High School, Nicole completed her studies with honors, setting a standard of excellence and determination. Her passion for nurturing and supporting her family was evident in her love for cooking and creating a warm, welcoming home environment. Nicole had an innate gift for making every family gathering special, ensuring that her home was always filled with laughter, love, and the comforting aroma of her delicious meals. Nicole’s dedication extended beyond her culinary talents; she was a devoted mother to her four children: Jasmine Whitehead, Brittney Whitehead, Patrick Whitehead, and Destiny Whitehead. Her unwavering commitment to their education and extracurricular pursuits was unparalleled, as she actively engaged in their lives, always encouraging and guiding them to be their best selves. Nicole was a woman of exceptional character, whose kindness and generosity knew no bounds. She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and resilience that her family will carry forward in her honor. Although Nicole's physical presence will be deeply missed, her spirit will continue to inspire those who knew her. Her life was a testament to the power of love and family, and her memory will remain a source of comfort and strength for all who had the privilege of being part of her world. A celebration of Nicole’s life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to honor and remember the beautiful life she lived. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to lupus research organizations, in hopes of finding a cure for this challenging disease. Nicole Renee Smith will forever be remembered in the hearts of her family and friends, and her legacy will continue to live on through the lives she touched with her kindness and love. Rest in peace, dear Nicole, knowing that you were deeply loved and will never be forgotten.