Delores Smoot

August 31, 1938 – August 3, 2025

Delores Smoot, age 86, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2025, in Dayton, Ohio. Born on August 31, 1938, in Washington, D.C., Delores was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Theresa Taylor and William Lucas; two beloved sons: Samuel Henson Smoot and James Smoot, Jr.; three brothers:  Earl Stevenson, Cyprian Taylor and Gofney Brown, Jr.; and close friends Ann Howard and Hattie Griffin.

A devoted mother, Delores leaves behind six children: Adelbert Henson (Carla) of Washington, D.C.; Josephine Furlow of Cincinnati, OH; Michael Smoot (Sue) of Canton, OH; Nicole Smoot-Miller of Dayton, OH; Tiara Smoot of Cincinnati, OH; and Iris Smoot-Ellis of Richmond, VA. Her legacy lives on through 13 grandchildren: Jerome Henson (Sherrie), Leona Henson (Marquitta), Angela Williams, Tiffany Henson, Tajee Miller, Kyren Smoot, Takia Miner (Nocomis), Tyheed Miller, Amiya Smoot, Brenae Smoot, Samaya Smoot, Shantese Alexander and Kari Ellis; 18 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson; and a host of extended family and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Among her closest companions was her cousin and best friend, Alphonso “Billy” Lewis, lovingly known together as "Bonnie and Clyde" to those who knew them best. She also held dear her cousins Eugene Doggett and Ernest Doggett and her caring neighbor and friend, Mr. Danny Mangelsdorf, whose support during her medical journey meant the world to her.

As the family matriarch, affectionately known as “Grannie,” Delores found immense joy in caring for and babysitting her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and the many close friends and family members who lovingly entrusted her with their children for daycare over the years. Her tough love was constant and her presence brought comfort and strength to all.  

She will be remembered for her warmth, hospitality, and love of family. Her home was a central gathering place for holidays, celebrations, and Sunday meals—always filled with laughter, delicious food and heartfelt conversations.  For many years, she attended Mt. Pisgah Church, where she was a dedicated member under the leadership of the late Pastor Willie L. Rowland. She actively served on the Kitchen Committee, contributing her time, love, and culinary talents to the church community.

Delores faced life’s greatest challenges, including a brave battle with lung and brain cancer and other medical illnesses, with extraordinary resilience and grace. Even in her final days, her strength and spirit remained unshaken. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.