Add a Memory
Make a Donation
BORN
1981
DIED
2016
Will Smith Obituary
Smith was involved in a traffic accident with another vehicle in New Orleans’ Lower Garden District. Smith and the driver of the other car involved exchanged words. Smith was shot multiple times and his wife Racquel was shot in the leg. Smith was pronounced dead at the scene. His wife was taken to a hospital.
Police said the 30-year-old driver of the Hummer was in custody and being interviewed.
Smith's family released a statement Sunday morning.
"On behalf of the Smith family, we are thankful for the outpouring of support and prayers. We ask that you continue to respect the family's privacy as they grieve the loss of a devoted husband, father and friend."
Smith played nine seasons with the Saints and last played in 2012. He ranks fourth in Saints history in quarterback sacks and he was elected to the Pro Bowl in 2006.
Saints head coach Sean Payton and others paid tribute to Smith on social media.
Sean Payton - Heavy Hearts w the senseless passing of our Team Capt. Will Smith. Pray for his wife's recovery and their children.
Saints’ running back Mark Ingram - Devastated. Lord please be with the Smith family at this tragic time. Nonsense man...
406 Entries
July 31, 2020
Very sad to hear, heart goes out family, my prayers are with you forever.
April 18, 2020
I am sorry for the lost of your loved one. What a terrible end of such a productive life. I pray that one day, things like this, will be a thing of the past. May the Comfort, continue to comfort the family.
Harry Simpson
April 9, 2019
Godspeed Will....
How you can show support
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS HALL OF FAME LEGEND
Kevin Christopher
September 21, 2016
RIH BJ, WE LOVE YOU COUSIN!!!!!!
Cindy Higgins
June 2, 2016
Prayers to the family. Too young to leave this world
WHO DAT NATION
April 29, 2016
RIP Will Smith
Rose Alexander
April 25, 2016
The Bay Cove Assiting Living Seniors Residents n Biloxi, Ms send their love and pray to Will Family. We r retiree seniors who love football. But the Saints is our favorable. We have watch Will play many times n the season. We live him and we always wanted him to come visit us one day...we r sadden what happen. We will all get together next season and wear his Saints number n the memory of him. We r residents between 70-94 yrs old who love football season. RIP Mr Will Smith. We loved u, but God loved u the most of all. We will miss u dearly
jacqueline washington
April 20, 2016
May God continue to heal all our broken hearts over the loss of a true legend. We love you Will #91, forever my favorite Saints Player..Jackie
B. Johnson
April 20, 2016
May God continues to keep you strong during this time of your storm in your life.
April 20, 2016
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Cheryl Hammer
April 20, 2016
May God bless your family at this time. You will always be a part of the "Who Dat Nation". You will be missed.
Teresa Williams
April 19, 2016
Will you will always be in my family hearts.God please protect his wife & kids from all sins of evil.
Cassandra Turner
April 19, 2016
May God always be with you and your family. May God strengthen you daily. May Gid bring peace in the mist of it all..
Marilyn Augustus
April 19, 2016
Condolences to The Smith Family, May our Lord and Savior bring you the Peace and Comfort during this time of grief. REST Will, for a good heart has stopped beating, a good soul has ascended to heaven. Truly Will was a Champion for our beloved city, and you will be sadly miss by the "Who Dat Nation".. May the Peace of God which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus...
Mervin Bachemin Jr
April 18, 2016
My condolences from my family to your family
Vanessa Mathieu
April 18, 2016
May you rest ever so peacefully,
B Smith
April 18, 2016
RIP Will, you will be missed. May God continue to comfort your family in there time of need.
Connis Watson
April 18, 2016
Our Hearts go out to Will Smith Family, but most importantly his wife and his three children pray God surround them with his awesome healing energy and most of all his blessings there's a long road of recovery and I pray that one day God's peace will be with them all.
joyce bush
April 18, 2016
may god bless you and your family. Time heal all wounds. He tells us to take one day at a time and have faith in him. Look to the hills which cometh your help. your help come from the lord.
joyce bush
April 18, 2016
j
April 18, 2016
Condolences to the Smith family. God bless Racquel and the kids. You are in my prayers. Thanks for the years Will. Rest in Peace
Marie
April 17, 2016
Rest In Peace Will
April 17, 2016
RIP.....Will
Karen Creecy and Family
April 17, 2016
Condolences and heartfelt sympathies to the entire family. Gather your strength from the Almighty and hold to His unchanging hand. RIP Will. We hardly knew ye....
Decher Wilson
April 17, 2016
Condolences to the Smith family.
May God continue to keep you lifted in this time of grief.
Kim Shingledecker
April 17, 2016
On Eagles Wings, Will, On Eagles Wings. May God bless and watch over your precious family and give your wife the strength and "will" she needs to go on without her love.
Nesbit Kelly-Henry
April 17, 2016
Condolences to Raquel and the entire Smith family.Remember that earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal.In due time, the memories of the good times will dry your tears away.Will #91, servant of God well done- take your eternal rest. New Orleans is forever grateful that you shared your many gifts with our city. Amen
Keisha H
April 17, 2016
RIP...praying for strength for your beautiful wife and kids
April 17, 2016
Thanks #91 for everything... You were the greatest.. R.I.P. WILL...
April 17, 2016
I keep the smith family in my prayers. My favorite team is the saints and i used to always think Will was the best on the line. When i found out of his passing it felt personal because its like i knew him. I remeember playing as him on a football game because i liked him. I ran with the saints from the start and so it made me sad that he passed in some stupid roadrage nonsense. So i want to send my condolences to the smith family. And i will keep you in my thoughts and prayers,
Darlene Hammond
April 17, 2016
I pray Will's precious family will be held close by the loving kindness of Jesus during this tragic sad time. May the love of the angels appear to comfort you. Will's spirit lives on forever. Sending my deepest condolences. Darlene Hammond
Betty Johnson
April 17, 2016
My condolences to the Will Smith family. Know that times heals all wounds and God will be your Comforter at all times. R.I.P. Will Smith
Sherie Fehn-Polanco
April 17, 2016
As we mourn his departure, the Angels rejoice in his arrival.
My the Lords love and strength be with you The Smith family .
April 17, 2016
Our Saint has March On....
Rest In Peace Will...
Kathleen Theodore
April 16, 2016
May the Holy Spirit hold the Smith family in a warm embrace and bring them healing and comfort everyday. I am deeply saddened by the loss of Will Smith, I have faith that God will bring you through
Yolanda
April 16, 2016
May God rest your soul
Vonetta Weatherspoon
April 16, 2016
I send my condolences to the Smith family. May God strengthen all of you up. As a Saints fan i will truly miss him. May God bless and keep each and everyone of you. I will keep you lifted in prayers. Rest easy # 91 Will Smith.
G.S. Winfield
April 16, 2016
RIP
April 16, 2016
MY PRAYER GO OUT TO YOU FAMILT. I LOVE U WLL R.I.P FROM MISS BETTY DIGGS FROM HOUMA LA YOU WILL BE MISS. BUT GOD HAVE U
BETTY DIGGS
April 16, 2016
I LOVE U WILL THANKS FOR THE SUPER BOWL WIN R.I.P AKD GOD BLESS YOU FAMILY,
BETTY DIGGS
April 16, 2016
MY PRAYER GO OUT TO YOU FAMILT. I LOVE U WLL R.I.P FROM MISS BETTY DIGGS FROM HOUMA LA YOU WILL BE MISS. BUT GOD HAVE U
Cindy Richard
April 16, 2016
My deepest condolences to the family and many friends. I pray for God's grace and love be forever yours.
Marissa Narcisse
April 16, 2016
Racquel, My heart aches for your loss and i will continue to keep you and your family in my prayers! Love to you and praying for a speedy recovery.
phaedra flakes
April 16, 2016
My heart goes out to will smith and his family he was a very good guy. I will keep the family in my prayers.I am a True Texans Fan But i kept up with this young man when he played in college and when he played for the saints. He will be truly miss
Louise Bonacci
April 16, 2016
I can still see him walking the halls of Proctor High School; confident and steadfast. A beautiful boy grew into a beautiful man. Gone too soon.
Tina Theriojerry Jr
April 16, 2016
Rest in peace you will be missed by all the saints fans and your family you was taken way to soon you signed my book and that will never leave my side ,to you Wuppertal and Children may god wrap his arms around y'all I'm am so sorry for y'all lost
Roselee Adams Williams
April 16, 2016
Earth has no sorrow, that heaven cannot heal. Condolences too the family in the loss of your loved one. A father, a son , a husband, a friend . May God continue too strengthen you in your time of heartache. Remember, God cares , He will bring you through.
S. Anderson
April 16, 2016
May God provide eternal rest and peace for Will Smith.
May Godd keep a hedge of protection around Mrs. Smith, their beautiful children, and the entire Smith family. We stand with you family and friends of Will and the Saints Nation!
Romans 8:28
Cowboy Nation!
Kimberly Bellonio
April 16, 2016
May God bless you and your family during this difficult time. My prayers are with you and your family to give you the strength you need. Will is your guardian angel and will be with you always.
C. Estelle
April 16, 2016
May god be with this whole entire family,during their loss,my he keep Will Smith wife and children strong and may his protection shield them every day,Mr.Smith will be their guiding angel he will always be near,just like i mighy god.God bless you all
Tammy Frazier
April 16, 2016
A young man, awesome father and amazing husband! Let's not forget a phenomenal football player for the New Orleans Saints! Glad you got that Superbowl Ring you so well deserved! My deepest condolences to your beautiful and amazing family. May God give you all the strength you need.
Cheryl Patterson
April 16, 2016
My heart is so full right now.
To the Smith family, you are in my prayers. May you find peace in knowing that Will was loved and respected by everyone.
RIP, WILL SMITH ....WD4L. You will be sorely missed
Brigida Scott Reid
April 16, 2016
RIP Mr. Smith
till we all meet again
Brigida Reid & family
Andrea Boland
April 16, 2016
Rest In Peace
Juanita
April 16, 2016
There is no sorry on earth,that heaven can't heal.. Prayers to the Smith family. He's with God now.Smile He's in great care.
Cynthia Schnyder
April 16, 2016
Will smith R.i.P.
Charmain Balancier
April 16, 2016
RIP Mr Smith
iris walden
April 16, 2016
May God Bless The Smith Family &Walk With Them Every Step of The Way
j staith
April 16, 2016
rip new Orleans soul ja
Juana Cadres
April 16, 2016
RIP Will Smith!!!! Praying for your wife and children.
Bernard and Lynette Johnson
April 16, 2016
Mrs. Smith: Our hearts are broken with this tragedy, and for the pain you and your little ones are going through. May God's blessing protect and keep you through this tragedy and forevermore.
John Lambert
April 16, 2016
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
co
April 16, 2016
My prayers goes out the your family and we miss you Will Smith
Kevin Joseph
April 16, 2016
Eternal rest granted unto the soul of Will Smith, May the perpetual light shine upon him .When the Saints Go Marching in, Smith will be in that number. To the Smith Family God will take care of you.
April 16, 2016
May god be with you in time of tragedy.
Missy & Wade Stewart
April 16, 2016
You don't have to be from NOLA to become a part of our family. The Who Dat Nation claims all Saints as our children, and your family is our family. Racquel, God bless you. We love you <3 To our Saints, both current and past, hold on to the beautiful memories that Will made for us. Your loss is our loss, NOLA mourns together.
Angelia Pena
April 16, 2016
It's still hard to believe that you are no longer here. Yesterday, I watched both Games, when you guys won the NFC championship and the SuperBowl game, thinking back to the massive celebration we had when y'all won the SB. I cried through both games, you were explosive on the field. Our thoughts and prayers are with your beautiful family Will, and all the friends who knew and loved you. You will forever be a Saint. Rest in Peace #91, you will never be forgotten.
Pat Feggett
April 16, 2016
May God give the family peace during this time.
Peggy Simpson
April 16, 2016
To the Smith family. So sorry for loss of Will. He will be missed and never forgotten. God Bless his family and friends who are suffering now from this great loss.
Pamela Mitchell
April 16, 2016
BJ the last time i saw you was in 2003 i remember the days we ate at the same table you was always in uou player games on tv u will truly be missed sip lv alway pam
James @ Jacqueline Harris @ Familly
April 16, 2016
A very sad day we have loss great man and person. Our hearts are broken never would believe something to happen like this to the SAINTS and to our City we have start believing in the Lord that he will take care of us. Praying for Healing We have a Angel in heaven and a Saint you will be miss and never forgot Lord whole the family in your loving arms and keep them with warmth of his heart with them and the strength to carry on
Edward Cazenave IV
April 16, 2016
To Smith family my condolences and may God continue to heal you in this difficult time . Will , thank you for all that given to my beloved home town . Taken to soon R.I.P. The Cazenave Family
Candi Hardy
April 16, 2016
Rest in God handWill Smith
M Coble
April 16, 2016
Rip Will Smith. You will be greatly missed. You will always be a Saint. Prayers to your family. What a senseless tragedy.
Jamal Anderson
April 15, 2016
My deepest sympathy are with the Family
Wanda Anderson
April 15, 2016
My prayers are with the Family .May the Family find comfort with the Lord!
Ramona Thompson
April 15, 2016
My prayers go out to the Smith family. I pray that God brings comfort and peace to your family. Know that #91 Will Smith may be gone but will not be forgotten. My hope to you is that these bible verses also bring comfort to your family. John 16:20, 22. Again my condolences to your family.
April 15, 2016
Eura jones lawrence ward R I P Will
Deronda Baxter Lucas
April 15, 2016
Rest in paradise. ..
The Thomas family
April 15, 2016
Praying for the Smith family
Victoria Doty
April 15, 2016
To the Smith family....my prayers and condolences are with you. Will, you were an awesome person, son, husband, dad, and friend. The Who Dat Nation will miss you. Fly high #91. You will forever be a Saint.
April 15, 2016
To the Smith family, my sincere condolences for this tragic loss. My prayers are with your family. Please take comfort in the promise of a life without such pain and suffering to come soon
LOUISE CLARK
April 15, 2016
PRAYING FOR THE FAMILY
LOUISE CLARK
April 15, 2016
RIP MR WILL SMITH
April 15, 2016
May God grant your family with the serenity they need at this time. Your family has my condolences and sympathy.
Ann
April 15, 2016
RIP Mr.Will Smith you're with God and Jesus Christ now!
Leslie Webb-Washington
April 15, 2016
I'm devastated to see my cousin go so soon!
I can't image what Raquel and the children are going through.
Raquel we are praying for strength and healing in the name of Jesus.
We love you Will❤❤
From the Webb & Bracey Family
Minola Butler
April 15, 2016
To Rockie and family...It'seems crazy how we loved Will as a saints player excited about the superbowl, autograph signings, etc. Then to knowing Will outside of football. Through our kids playing sports. Coaching my baby girl has been the best thing that could happen to her. Will gave her so much encouragement and inspiration that he will never know. We are deeply saddened and he will be missed very much. Will I thank you for the words you have shared with my daughter, believing in her, and being such a great role model. Rockie please know that we are here for you. Yall are in my thoughts a prayers. We miss you guys. We love you guys!
Sandra Colomb
April 15, 2016
My prayers are with the Smith family. What a loss for his family and our community. Rest In Peace Will.
Pauline Batiste Talley
April 15, 2016
In Christ, he's still alive.
The Minor Family
April 15, 2016
Condolences to the family.
RIP Will!!!!!
Fontella McCormick
April 15, 2016
Will you will always be a Saints so get ur rest on sorry it have to happen to you Rip on
Showing 1 - 100 of 406 results
Make a Donation
in Will Smith's name
How to support Will's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Will Smith's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored