Debra L. Smith, born on October 13th, 1953, to parents Clarence Lee “Bubba” and Sally Mae Mills, was called back home to be with the Lord on January 12, 2024, at the age of 70; joining her venerable parents and siblings Beverly Johnson and Greg Mills.

A beloved mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, cousin and friend to so many souls, near and far, traveled on a life-long journey filled with love, laughter, and profound connections.

She attended Cleveland Public Schools and was a 1971 graduate of East Technical High School. After graduating high school, Debra became an LPN, and embarked on a long and distinguished career in Nursing, where she not only provided extraordinary care to those in her charge, she also brought a calming and caring nature to her colleagues, and mentorship to young, healthcare professional throughout the greater Cleveland area.

Debra’s joy in life revolved around her family, especially her “grandbabies.” She had a love of classic movies and loved to dance with anyone who wanted to cut a rug.

In retirement, she spent summers on her porch, welcoming neighbors and friends for heartfelt conversations, advice, laughter, music, and amazing food from Auntie’s ‘Soul Food’ Kitchen. Affectionately known as Debbie, she was a straight shooter, offering candid advice rooted in love and respect.

Debra is survived by her devoted sons Jonasis (Jodi) Smith, Jason Smith, and cherished grandchildren Jonasis (Jon-Jon), Jaelon, Jazmyn and Jaliyah. She leaves behind her sister Diane (Arthur) Martin, Brothers Clarence L. Mills, Jr, Jeffrey Mills, sister Sylvia Mills and Brother Eric Mills. She is also survived and fondly remembered by nephews Arthur (Art) Mills-Martin, Eric V. Mills, Jr, niece Beverly Ann Mills and long-time partner Michael Capers, and former husband, Jonasis ‘Sonny’ Smith. A host of other relatives and lifelong friends also mourn her passing.

As we celebrate Debra’s life and pilgrimage on the forward way, let us reminisce about the abundant joy she brought, the connections she sculpted, and the love she altruistically shared with all who were blessed enough to know her. May her beautiful smile, memory, and soul be a source of comfort and inspiration for us all, in the days to come.

“We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” – 2 Corinthians 5:8