Dolores Jean Smith (February 26, 1957- February 14, 2024)
She would always tell you her opinion, whether you liked it or not. Dolores Jean Smith, 66, of Cleveland, Ohio, passed away in her sleep on February 14, 2024.

She was born in Cleveland in 1957 to Otis and Hilda Lawson (deceased), who were the guiding light and foundation for the rest of her life. A momma’s girl through and through, always willing to help whenever momma needed her to. She loved the time she spent with her siblings Odessa (Chris), June (deceased), Otis (Laura), Eric, and Darla (Reginald). Their family gatherings during their parents’ anniversary were always a special moment for all of them. She had a special relationship with her aunt Dolores, whom she always admired for strength and inspiration.

Dolores married the love of their life, Richard Smith Sr., in 1984 in Richard’s sister’s home in Cleveland, Ohio. They love dressing in blue jean matching outfits to attend James Brown Concerts. They were married for 39 years.

Dolores was a loving, caring, supportive, and present mother to Eltina Lawson, Gwendolyn Brice, Marjorie (Milton) Brice-Blake, LueBertha Smith, Barbara Smith, and Richard Smith Jr., always giving them the truth even when they didn’t want to hear it. Though she loved being a mother and wife, Dolores’s favorite role was as a grandparent. She treasured the time with her grandkids and loved being their Ma, granny, grandma, and GG never failing to teach them how to make her coffee the right way and never failing to impart her wisdom.

Dolores had a soft spot for one furry friend, Chico, who was like a second son. Chico could do no wrong, even if he attacked one of her grandchildren. Dolores and her friends were practically inseparable throughout their lives. They were together through it all, covering for each other with their parents and taking bingo trips.

Everyone who knew Dolores knew how much she loved sharing a good meal with family and friends. Dolores will always be remembered for her loving and caring spirit and how she made you feel like her love for you was unique. We’ll always imagine hearing her say, “Do as I say and not as I do! You ain’t my momma or daddy” one more time. We couldn’t have asked for a better sister, niece, mother, wife, grandmother, and friend, and we will miss Dolores every day. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all those who loved her.
Dolores was preceded in death by her father, Otis, mother, Hilda, and sister, June, and is survived by her husband, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, aunt, nieces, nephews, and a host of family and friends.