Jarmone J. "Mone" Smith

Jarmone J. Smith, affectionately known to all as "Mone," passed away in New Orleans, LA, on October 11, 2025, at the age of 42. He was born on September 23, 1983.
Jarmone was the definition of big-hearted. For Jarmone, every person he met was a friend, and his generosity was boundless; he would truly give his last and go without, always putting the needs of his loved ones before his own. His determination was fueled by a desire to live a life that allowed him to give even more of himself to his family and friends. Jarmone's love for laughter was infectious, and the pure, priceless light of his smile had the ability to illuminate any room.
Jarmone was a man of remarkable intelligence and diverse talents. He attended Southern University on a scholarship, where he maintained a stellar 4.0 GPA. Professionally, he was a dedicated and talented Certified Welder for many years in the Shipyards and Construction industry before obtaining his CDL license and working in the school district, driving buses.
The center of Jarmone's world was his family. He carried a deep and enduring love for his parents and was appreciative of the countless sacrifices they all made for him. Jarmone recollects his mother and stepfather's selfless acts, the early morning and late-night drives to and from work that ensured his success, viewing their tireless support as the foundation of his determination. Furthermore, he valued their guidance on financial management, which helped him not only work toward his goals but also stay on track to achieve them.
Although he often challenged his mother when she spoke to him about the importance of a relationship with God, he appreciated those conversations, which ultimately led him to give his life to Christ at Household of Faith.
Jarmone often reminisced about his childhood upbringing, family gatherings for holidays, and precious time spent together at City Park. He talked about how his father showed him and his brothers how to carry themselves as young men, giving them life talks that prepared them for the world, and teaching life skills and values, and showed him the importance of being a positive male figure in his home. He smiled as he remembered the house was always filled with laughter listening to the brothers' debate about who was the best football player; they were always competing over who dressed the best, who could get the most girls, who sang the best, and so many other things, but the truth is, they all excelled.
While he cherished music and singing, his greatest joy was his beloved son, Jaiden Wilson. He wanted to give Jaiden the world, and he cherished every moment, every phone call, and every text message from him. Jarmone proudly referred to Jaiden as his "twin," and the mere thought of him brought an immediate, beaming smile to his face. As a deeply proud father, he truly thought the world of his son, viewing him as his greatest accomplishment and source of pure happiness.
Jarmone truly looked up to his siblings, admiring their accomplishments and drawing inspiration from their lives, valuing all their advice and taking their guidance to heart. He deeply admired his brother Chris's strength and influence and valued his sister Lakeisha (Keedy's) love and accomplishments. His bond with his brother Juan was especially profound; they were like twins from childhood who shared almost everything and always had each other's backs. Jarmone looked up to Juan's charisma and leadership abilities, and just as Jarmone naturally gravitated toward Juan, people were similarly drawn to him.
Jarmone survives by his beloved son, Jaiden Wilson, his loving parents, Dereke Smith, Dorothy Gibson and his stepfather, Byron Gibson.
He leaves behind a legacy of devotion carried on by his surviving siblings: Christopher Smith, Lakeisha Smith (Teryl), and Jowan Smith (Nia). He is also survived by his stepsiblings, Danesha Gibson, Byron Gibson Jr. (Lisa), Derrick Gibson (Mandy), and Darren Gibson.
Jarmone was a cherished uncle to his nephews, Demyran Browder (Bria), Michael Smith, Kimari Smith, and Darren Gibson, and nieces Jowan Smith, Camery LaCoste, and Trinity LaCoste, Tery'elle Jones, along with a host of other beloved nieces and nephews. He will also be deeply missed by his uncle's June Harness, Carl Harness (Aunt Jacquline), Thomas Ratliff (Aunt Michelle); his aunt Rochelle Smith, and many extended relatives and friends whose lives he touched with his giving spirit and beautiful smile.
Preceded in death: Grandmothers Codelia Pittman (Cora), and Lillian Smith, Aunt Gloria Harness (Red), Niece Myrecle Smith and a host of other relatives.