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LaTanya N. Smith

December 29, 1971 - September 27, 2015
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LaTanya N. Smith went home to be with the Lord on September 27, 2015.  LaTanya is survived by her beloved husband, Russel (Eric) Smith and parents, J.C. and Mary Steele.  Cherished stepmother of Erin D. Jones; loving sister of Torrey Steele and Shawn Steele Vazquez.  Family will receive friends Friday, October 2, 2015, 6-8pm atContinue Reading

Pilar (PjV) left a message on March 25, 2020:
Dear Auntie Nikkie, not a day goes by where I don't think about you. I miss your laugh, your smile, your voice, just you all together. I wish I was able to have a chance to spend time with you before you had gone but I'm glad that I spent the time with you that I did. You're one of the beautiful and important people that I've ever known m whole life, I know you weren't able to be here with me the whole way through but I know that you're looking down on me smiling from above because of how proud you are. The love that I felt from you and had from you is a type of love that I never could've thought I would ever have or feel but i felt it with you. You were my best friend and piece of my heart the moment I even came into this world. I know sometimes i might get sad or even feel down because you're not here, but just know that i know you're very happy up there. I'll always cherish the times i spent with you at your house with you and Uncle Eric and even the times at your other house when I was younger. You loved me more than anything in this world and I could tell. I know I was hard headed at times but , I just wish I had another chance to see you and tell you how much I love you and talk to you about everything like I used to do. Until the day I see you again in the future, I love you forever and always. Love your favorite niece.
Chad Robinson left a message on February 26, 2016:
Just heard about this tragedy..long time freind..RIP Tonya.. Chad
Torrey "Ray" Steele left a message on January 18, 2016:
Thanks to everyone. I read all of your post and we really appreciate all the love. She's looking over us all.
Tyler Givens left a message on January 4, 2016:
I still think of you everyday. I hear your laugh all the time and I'll always miss you. You were my Momma Tanya and you meant the world to me. I wish I could still laugh with you, hug you, tell you everything. You're now my guardian angel. Your Ty loves you
John left a message on October 13, 2015:
Dear family I wanted to convey deep condolences for what you're going through right now. An encouraging scripture is Revelation 21: 3,4 "He will wipe out every tear from their eyes and death will be no more, the former things have passed away" Please take care, John
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Simone Wright-Gatewood left a message on October 6, 2015:
I went to high school with LaTanya and we lived a few doors away from each other. I remember feeling honored that she lived so close to me. As I think of her, All I think about is how graceful she was. Her energy and positive nature was so peaceful to be around. I am So honored to know you and may you rest Rest in peace. My condolences to your entire family with love.
Harold Babbit left a message on October 5, 2015:
Just the other day I told her she wasn't old enough to scan my beer. She flashed that famous gorgeous smile and thanked me. Such a genuine person. I will miss her. My condolences to the family.
Sandra Jones left a message on October 4, 2015:
I have been going to Heinens for almost twenty years and everytime I go I always look for the familiar faces just to say hi, yours were one of them. As I was leaving I looked toward the front service counter and so your picture and I stood there frozen in place not wanting to believed what I was reading. I went to my car and sat there and cried. You will surely be missed for your kindness and friendly face. Thank you for all the years of service.
Michelle Gabriel left a message on October 4, 2015:
Going to Heinens will not be the same without her there. Such a warm positive presence. My sincere sympathy to the family. May God give you peace and comfort.
Tisha Marie left a message on October 4, 2015:
My deepest and strongest condolences goes out to you and your family... Such a sweet and nice person. Didn't know her that well from school but did get to know her from shopping at Heinens... Always offered to help... God Bless your Soul....
Tisha Marie left a message on October 4, 2015:
My deepest and strongest condolences goes out to your family. I didn't really know Tanya but every time I went into Heinens she was so Sweet and nice all the time... God Bless her Soul...
Keith Tutstone left a message on October 3, 2015:
O Lord God we come to You at this time of great shock and grief and ask that in Your grace, You would shed Your peace and comfort to all who are mourning this death - that was so sudden and so very unexpected. Lighten our darkness O Lord we pray, and comfort our sorrowing hearts. Pour Your peace that passes all understanding into the hearts of all that are grieving and shower the assurance of Your love on all - at this time of sadness. Lord we are not to grieve as those who have no hope - those that have not trusted in Christ as Saviour, for our hope and trust is in You and our eyes are looking to You for strength, encouragement and comfort at this time of great sadness.  Lord it is at a time like this that we suddenly begin to realise the great frailty of life and the brief portion that we are permitted on this earth. Cause all who are grieving here today to take stock of our own, individual lives and help us to be wise and to number our days. Help us to live our lives as unto the Lord, knowing that at any time You may choose to call us home as well. Thank You Father, that our times ARE in Your hands and there are no sudden deaths in Your economy. May we live wisely from this day forward and use us we pray, to be a comfort to others who may experience similar times of great sadness, In Jesus name we pray,  Amen 
The White family left a message on October 3, 2015:
The sweet face of Heinen's. Latanya brought a warm inviting presence to the community. I know she will be greatly missed and set the bar for employees following her. Good job sweetheart. God bless all who loves you and called you friend. Thank you for the countless replacement Heinen's rewards cards and for all the little things that meant a lot. Thank you to the family for sharing such a sweet soul with us. May God be with you all.
Laverne Jones left a message on October 3, 2015:
Tanya, you came into our lives a few short years ago. You instantly became a great mom and I will always love you for that. Eric, thank you for bringing such a beautiful and warm person into our lives and although Tanya is no longer here in the flesh, her memory will always be stamped in our hearts.
Mac Mellert left a message on October 3, 2015:
Russel, my deepest sympathy to you and your family. My thought and prayers will continue for comfort for all.
Dwayne & Leatha Stewart left a message on October 3, 2015:
Our deepest condolences to you and your family. We pray that God will bring you peace, comfort and courage to face the days ahead.
Racquel Landers left a message on October 3, 2015:
I only knew Tanya through mutual friends and family, but I was deeply saddened to learn of her passing so young. As another person said, I won't question God, but I am praying that her family and friends have peace during this difficult time. I hope that they are comforted by all the lives that Tanya touched. She was a beautiful person inside and out-and loved by so many! What a Blessing it was to have known her.
Claudia Lewis left a message on October 3, 2015:
I will remember your kindness to my granddaughter when she first started,as this was her first job and she was quite nervous, and you put her at ease. Life like a mist appears for just a day. Then disappears tomorrow. All that we have can quickly fade away, replaced with tears and sorrow. If a man should die, can he live again? Hear the promise God has made. He will call, the dead will answer. They shall live at his command. For he will have a longing for the work of his own hand. So have faith, and do not wonder, For our God can make us stand. And he shall live forever, As the work of his own hand. Friends of our God, though they may pass away, will never be forsaken. All those asleep who in God's memory stay, From death he will awaken. Then we'll come to se all that life can be: Paradise eternally. he will call, the dead will answer. They shall live at his command. For he will have a longing for the work of his own hand. So have faith, and do not wonder, For our God can make us stand, And we shall live forever, as the work of his own hand. Job14:13,14,15.
Marlys Smith left a message on October 3, 2015:
My condolences and prayers go out to the family during this difficult time.
Theresa Anderson Young left a message on October 3, 2015:
Such a Beautiful Woman....sending prayers to your family during these trying times. God Blessed your soul. I give thanks for your life. Sleep on Angel
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
I. Robinson left a message on October 3, 2015:
Thank you for wonderful memories, you will be missed. (The Girls)
Lataunya Booker left a message on October 3, 2015:
It is very evident that Tanya was a well loved woman. I, as most, were extremely surprised to learn that such a kind, loving and special person had passed on so soon. I last saw Tanya in December at my cousin's birthday dinner. As usual she greeted me with that beautiful smile and hugs. To the family, you are in my prayers and I pray that God covers you with peace and understanding. LaTaunya Booker
DeAndre Clemons left a message on October 3, 2015:
Will always remember her smile.
DeAndre Clemons left a message on October 3, 2015:
My deepest sympathy is with the family in this time of sorrow.
Rosalynn Bell-Gay left a message on October 3, 2015:
I worked with Latanya at Heinen's and she was one of the nicest people I have ever met. She was a very special person. My heart is heavy so I cannot imagine what those who truly knew and loved her are going through. My sincerest condolences to her entire family. She will be missed.
Dwayne & Leatha Stewart left a message on October 2, 2015:
Our deepest condolences to you and your family. We will continue to pray that God will comfort your heart during this difficult time.
Liza Massey left a message on October 2, 2015:
Sweet Angel you will be missed enjoyed our Heights High years together. You touched many lives will always remember your infectious smile! Praying for your family and friends we will see you again!
Chi Wilson left a message on October 2, 2015:
My dearest Tanya Nikki, I miss you every day. All of what we accomplished, talked about doing and had not done-will be carried through with you in our hearts. Our wedding and bridal shower was the simply the best because of you and Shawn. To Eric, Ma Mary, Jay, Quee, Torrey and everyone: This pain is something that we can not escape--just know that none of us are alone. Peace will replace heartaches and our warmest memories of Tanya Nicole will remain with us forever. May GOD BLESS YOU ALL. Love, Chi' and Ronald Wilson and our entire family
Mary Pollock-Hammock left a message on October 2, 2015:
To the Smith and Steele family. JC and Liz, you are in my prayers. Deepest Condolences. Weeping may endure for a night, but JOY comes in the morning. Psalms 30:5. Keeping you in prayer.
Noah Carmichael left a message on October 2, 2015:
Its very sad to lose such a young soul. My deepest condolences to your family. Russell if there is anything you need please let us know.
Dale Glicker left a message on October 2, 2015:
My heart and prayers go out to the family. I am only a Heinen's customer, but Latanya was a part of my Saturday morning ritual. She loved her job, her co-workers and most of all people. Her smile was always there, inside and out. Heinen's was fortunate to have her as an example to others of how to serve.
Kyatawna (Kya) Pinkney left a message on October 2, 2015:
So sad to see such a beautiful, bright smile and wonderful heart leave us so soon. I can't help but place my nickname in my signature that you gave me 38 years ago in kindergarten at Coventry. I'd never heard it before and you said; "I'm going to call you Kya" And it stuck with me ever since. Throughout my journey in life from Cleveland Heights, to Bedford, to Maple Heights, and beyond, all of my friends have called me by the name you gave me and I honor that! I thank God for having known you for this long but yet short period of time. God bless you angel. Rest in heaven. We will surely miss you!
Mina McGrady left a message on October 2, 2015:
Wow, RIH Tonya. You will definitely be missed!! You watched my 19yr old son grow up through our visits to Heinens like EVERYDAY, and you watched my 5year old daughter grow also while establishing the best relationship with her. Just the other day she ran into Heinens searching for Ms. Tonya. Everyday that we would come into Heinens she looked for you and would always run up behind you hugging you as she always caught you off guard. We could not leave the store without her speaking to you. She will cherish her rock collection you got for her on your recent trip. I finally got the guts to tell my daughter Aminah that you are now one of Gods angels, she was really sad, but told her to remember how nice and pleasant of person Ms. Tonya was! These last few days going into Heinens has definitely been hard; I can't even approach the front desk. However though, I'll make sure Aminah will always remember you!!
David & Kimberly left a message on October 2, 2015:
We may not know God's plan for us , but we must hold our faith. We are praying for you and the family. May God keep you and hold you. GOD'S time is Not our Time keep a hold of your Faith and don't Let Go even when it's so hard to do. We are all with you let us know if you should need anything. Blessings
Robin Woodall left a message on October 2, 2015:
My heart is deeply troubled that I will not see your timeless smile on my " people you may know " page. I only saw you in passing while in CH/UH school system... but I was always amazed at how stunningly beautiful you were. I can tell by the out pouring of love you were a precious soul & will be sincerely missed. Rest well Beauty.. rest well.
Evelyn Lamb-Long left a message on October 2, 2015:
I cannot express how my heart is so deeply broken over such a beautiful person leaving so soon. You are truly going to be missed. To the family, I know this has got to be one of the hardest times you will ever have to endure. My prayers are with each and everyone of you. God bless and keep you all.
Richelle "Shelley" Sims left a message on October 2, 2015:
To Terray and family, you have my deepest condolences. I have no words other than I love you and I am praying for you brother.
Richelle "Shelley" Sims left a message on October 2, 2015:
Tanya, I can't express the pain I feel right now. I can't even look at your pictures. I will always remember your sweet face and how we hugged whenever we saw each other at Heinen's which was quite often. I will miss seeing you at my sorority functions and just knowing you're gone is still a shock. I know I will see you in Heaven because you are truly an angel and your presence on earth will always be felt. I love you my sister. I will not say goodbye but will say see you later.
Johnny White left a message on October 1, 2015:
Liz, so very sorry to here of your loss, my heart goes out to you and the family and may the peace of GOD that surpasses all understanding guard your hearts and minds through CHRIST JESUS God bless
Tiffany Loggins left a message on October 1, 2015:
God has surely gotten an angel!
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Tiffany Loggins left a message on October 1, 2015:
You will truly be missed...God has gained an angel!
Tina M. Valentine left a message on October 1, 2015:
From 1st grade at Coventry Elementary till graduation from CHHS, I will never forget you...always exuding the most beautiful spirit with the perfect smile to match. As a customer walking through the doors of Heinen's, one couldn't help but to quickly scan the front of the store hoping to catch a glance of you, especially the CHHS Tigers...always doing what should be a frustrating job with such ease and cheerfulness. Whenever choosing to shop there, seeing your smiling face at checkout somehow managed to ease the pinch I felt after looking at the receipt. Usually thinking, "I would've paid alot less for this milk somewhere else"... somehow seeing you made me forget about my thoughts of "should've gone to Dave's" and paying the obviously much higher prices for a bunch overpriced items at Heinen's always ended up feeling worthwhile. Supporting my fellow Tiger, who was always happily smiling at the front of the store while being of service to others, made me realize that success after high school wasn't necessarily defined by having obtained the job title of CEO...simply being happy, doing whatever job you enjoy doing, is just as good. I wish I had told you how much you meant to me the last time we saw each other in Heinen's...how much you meant to all of us, I'm sure the feelings are mutual amongst my former classmates. You will always be a recognizable thread, woven in the CHHS cloth, that bonds us all together so strongly. It breaks my heart to know that you won't be at Heinen's the next time I shop there, or at the next class reunion to share our lives at, but you will always be a part of our Alma Mater...the Black and Gold. You shined at school, you shined at Heinen's...you will shine in Heaven too I'm sure...now as an angel with the Lord. I hope I see you there, right at the front...helping to ease the pinch after checkout for all of us, whenever that time comes. So till we see each other again, rest in peace my friend, please know that you will never be forgotten...we all miss and love you! Tina Valentine
Tyrone, Margaret, Tylethia, Tyamber, Luke, Marceline "Mott", Anitra, & Alexis Steele left a message on October 1, 2015:
Psalm 18:2 “The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” Deepest sympathy
Tina Valentine left a message on October 1, 2015:
From 1st grade at Coventry Elementary till graduation from CHHS, I will never forget you...always carrying the most beautiful spirit with a smile to match. As a customer of Heinens, walking through the door one couldn't help but scan the front hoping to catch a glance of you always doing what should be a frustrating job with such ease and cheerfulness. Choosing to shop there and seeing your smiling face at checkout, somehow eased the pinch after looking at the receipt. Usually thinking I could have paid alot less for milk somewhere else, somehow seeing you made you forget and paying the obviously higher prices for a bunch overpriced items felt worthwhile. Supporting my fellow Tiger always hard at work felt good. I wish I had told you how much you meant to me the last time we saw each other in Heinen's...how much you meant to all of us, I'm sure the feeling is mutual, a thread woven in the CHHS knot that bonds us all together.
Robert Fitzgerald Bohannon left a message on October 1, 2015:
I am sending much love and prayers to my Cousin J.C. and Cousin Liz, the Steele Family, the Sims Family, and the Smith Family during your loss from DeKalb, Kemper County, MS. May God forever bless you and keep you all.
Falesia Wiley Clark "peanut " left a message on October 1, 2015:
I Love cousin my heart is full and you are well loved by so many I'm going to miss your smiling face beauty with brains hugs n kisses baby
Julianna Senturia left a message on October 1, 2015:
My deepest condolences to family and friends.
Cindy Corbin left a message on October 1, 2015:
Nicki, you were so easy to talk to, you had such a sweet, kind , gentle spirit. You will be greatly missed, rest in heaven. Praying for your husband and family.
Yvette Townsend left a message on October 1, 2015:
Mycondolences are with my friends family at this moment, she will be missed and for ever in my thoughts.
AMBER MONGO left a message on October 1, 2015:
It was very heartbreaking to hear of LaTanya's departure from us. I just wanted to share how much of a delightful person she was to me. I always looked forward to seeing her in Heinen's she always had a hug for me and my children. Asking them about school. Heinen's will never be the same with out her. She was a beautiful woman inside and out. She will be greatly missed. I truly pray God's peace and comfort for her family and especially her beloved husband.
Karen Corkin left a message on October 1, 2015:
Shawn, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Halloe and Shanon Robinson left a message on October 1, 2015:
May God be with you and your entire Family at this time.
Hattie White Rupert left a message on October 1, 2015:
I am a cousin of Nicki. Her mother and I grew up together like sisters and Nicki's father was my high school classmate. My heart hurts for Liz, Jay, Nicki's sister Quey, her brother Torrey, her husband(whom I haven't met), and all of the family. But there is comfort in knowing that God is always with us and HE will bring Joy, Hope and Peace to all of us. Nicki was such a beautiful woman, beautiful smile, beautiful spirit and caring heart. We will miss her, but the precious memories will always be with us. We love you much. Hattie and Melvin Rupert, Omaha, Nebraska
Tammy left a message on October 1, 2015:
My sincere condolences to the family. Tanya was a beautiful young lady always had a smile on her face. I will miss seeing you at heinen's. CHHS 89. My prayers and thoughts are with the family.
Tammy left a message on October 1, 2015:
My sincere condolences to the family. Tanya was beautiful young lady always had a smile on her face . I will miss seeing you at Heinens. Class of 89 Tiger Nation
Felicia Shepard left a message on October 1, 2015:
You were beautiful inside and out. Grateful I had the opportunity to know such an Angel. That smile will be truly missed! RIH
Winall Longdon left a message on October 1, 2015:
Russell I'm so sorry to hear of the passing of your wife.My deepest condolences to you and your family.
Vernon and Winifred Henderson left a message on October 1, 2015:
She will be miss; but much closer to us because she lives within our heart with her beautiful smile and warmth.
Belinda McKinney left a message on October 1, 2015:
Rest In Peace my sister. You are missed.
Shardena Perry left a message on October 1, 2015:
My condolences and prayers go out to the family. My God strengthen you during this difficult time.
Carol Conti-Entin left a message on October 1, 2015:
Heinen's in Shaker Heights won't be the same without LaTanya. She was always smiling, helpful to colleagues and customers, efficient, and willing to do whatever was needed at that moment.
Glenn left a message on October 1, 2015:
Russel, my heart goes out to you on your family. I can only imagine the hurt you may have right now. Just remember God has it all under control. He will not put more on you than you can bear. Russel my Bricklaying brother I'm praying you, and I love you!!! Glenn
Kelli P. Washington left a message on October 1, 2015:
My condolences and prayers go to Tanya's husband and family. She was such a blessing to so many people. May the Lord keep you during this time. - Kelli CHHS 1990
Kenya Hill-Prewitt left a message on September 30, 2015:
Tanya you will truly be missed. You were a beautiful person inside and out. My thoughts and prayers will be with your loved ones.
David A. Nance left a message on September 30, 2015:
Always used to joke about how I was getting older and she seemed to stop aging, she truly was a wonderful human being and will be sorely missed.
Jasmine Ferguson left a message on September 30, 2015:
She is one of the most beautifully spirited and genuinely kind people I have ever met. What a wonderful, wonderful person and an amazing sister and source of support to my dear friend. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. I'm offering you my love, support and friendship. Always...
Jeff King left a message on September 30, 2015:
Russel Sorry for your loss. It is hard to know what to say at at a time like this,but I felt that it is important that you and the whole family know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.May GOD give you strength in this time of sorrow.
Kennetha Merles left a message on September 30, 2015:
I will always remember your smile ..the world lost a beautiful person, inside and out. Condolences to your family. You will never be forgotten.
Terri THOMPSON left a message on September 30, 2015:
Praying for strength and guidence for you all! May you find comfort in knowing she is with Our Father in Heaven!
Joe O'Connor left a message on September 30, 2015:
Latanya will forever be in my heart. Hiring her 25 years ago with her infectious smile was the high point of my career. Thank you for being in our lives and continue to pray for us as we know you are with our Lord. Say hi to my Molly..
Crystal Hunter left a message on September 30, 2015:
The lord has received another angel. Such a beautiful, warm and caring young lady. She will be greatly missed by so many hearts she touched. Praying for all her loves ones..
James T Lawson left a message on September 30, 2015:
Heaven has truly gained an angel. I'm proud to have known you and be blessed by your presence.
clarkkitt@yahoo.com left a message on September 30, 2015:
LaTanya was such a beautiful spirit. She will be truly missed.
Lesa Wilson chapman left a message on September 30, 2015:
Sending my prayers and condolences to the family
Angela Rivers left a message on September 30, 2015:
Tanya and I went to high school and graduated together. She had a great personality and a beautiful smile. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.
Faye Lymon-Johnson left a message on September 30, 2015:
Peanut Butter as we called you as kids we will truly miss you. We all know God has a true Angel amongst him as we did here. Love you
Steven V. Haynie left a message on September 30, 2015:
There are no words to express the grief that you all are feeling in this moment but I want you all to know that we love you and we are all praying for you.
Freddie R. Hubbard Sr left a message on September 30, 2015:
Russell my deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. I am so sorry my Brother anything I can do just let me know.
Tracie Taylor left a message on September 30, 2015:
Russel and family, I'm so very sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Tyrone scott left a message on September 30, 2015:
You will truly be missed! Send down a feather from your wings when you get home with God young Angel.
Marlene Sparks left a message on September 30, 2015:
Sincere Condolences to all bodies needing comforting.
Karen winters left a message on September 30, 2015:
God called his Angel home thou you will be missed in presense your spirit will always be with us.
Rose Merendino left a message on September 30, 2015:
There was no finer woman. She always met me and the kids with a smile, willing to help when I saw her at Heinen's. I am so blessed to have known her. Love you, beautiful lady.
Bernice McLemore left a message on September 30, 2015:
Missing that smile of Tanya back in Coventry and seeing her at her job was such delightful, and such a kind woman, very sad to see her leave but happy that she has gone to a better place... We all loved her dearly
Cherita Shaw (Tweet) left a message on September 30, 2015:
It hurts my heart that someone so sweet would be taken so soon. I won't question it, but it will take some time to grasp. You always had an awesome spirit which made you a joy to be around. Rest easy and know that you touched a lot of people...
Stacy McIntosh left a message on September 30, 2015:
Sending my prayers to your family and asking God to give you the strength during this difficult time.
Tracey Benson left a message on September 30, 2015:
Loving you forever Nikki! Rest in Heaven.....not a goodbye.... I will see you later
Bootsie fields left a message on September 30, 2015:
Rest well, I will forever remember your smile Tanya. Condolences to the Steele family.
Erika Kennedy Hill left a message on September 30, 2015:
Rest in Heaven. We were all Blessed to have you in our lives.
condolence-image Calhoun Funeral Home & Cremation Service left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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