Menyaca Lorrie Smiley-Brown, born on December 23, 1967, in Cleveland, Ohio, was the beloved daughter of Inez Smiley-Brown and Curtis Derome Brown. She passed away on January 14, 2024. Menyaca’s early education took her through Henry Longfellow and Ohio Perry Elementary School, followed by Catholic School, and finally Collinwood High School. She found solace and strength in her faith, attending Aspinwall Church and receiving baptism at Morning Star Baptist Church.

Professionally, Menyaca contributed her talents to Avon and collaborated with her father in painting ventures. Though she lived a single life and did not have children of her own, she cherished her family and friends deeply. Menyaca found joy in singing, dancing, and indulging in shopping escapades alongside her mother and sister.

Her artistic flair was recognized and celebrated, notably earning an award for her Cubistic Clown artwork at the Art Museum. Fond memories of Menyaca include shared laughter, singing sessions, and endearing nicknames like “Educated Baby,” affectionately bestowed upon her sister Carla E.B.

Menyaca leaves behind her loving sister, Carla Smiley-Brown, along with a vast network of family members: seven aunts – Pearlie N. Smiley, Rosalyn R. Smiley, Carol F. Smiley, Virginia Boone, Gwendolyn Smiley-Pitts, Darlene Brown, Denise Brown – and six uncles – Prince H. Smiley, David Smiley, Carlos Brown, Ernest Brown Sr., Maury Brown. She is also survived by numerous cousins, including Martinez R. Smiley, Rodriguez Smiley, Rashastity Smiley, Shaun Brown, Tia Brown, Santina Boone, James Boone, Carlos Boone, Dontell Brown, Tiara Brown, Allen Brown, as well as a host of other relatives, great aunts, great uncles, and friends.

Menyaca’s memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of those who knew and loved her