Johnathan David Smick Jr.

In Loving Memory of Johnathan "Johnny" "Johno"

Johnathan was born on September 1, 1991, in Southfield, and from the very beginning, he lived life in full color. He grew up in Madison Heights, attending Guardian Angels for elementary and middle school and Bishop Foley for high school, later continuing his education at Oakland Community College. But long before any graduation ceremony, Johnathan had already found his true calling: the stage.

At just two years old, he was Peter Pan, casting the entire family as Captain Hook whether they liked it or not. That playful, theatrical spark never left him. Through school and community performances, and eventually producing his own drag shows, Johnathan shared his voice, his humor, and his larger-than-life presence with anyone lucky enough to be in the audience. Singing, music, acting-these weren't just hobbies. They were how he connected to the world.

Johnathan was deeply loved by his mom, Joy, his dad, John, his sister Heather, and his brother-in-law Drew. He was surrounded by a large extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, and adopted family who cherished him. Beyond that, he built a wide circle of friends who quickly became family. To know Johnathan was to feel included, accepted, and celebrated.

He was a dedicated advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and a fierce supporter of anyone who felt like an underdog. He believed in showing up for people, standing beside them, and making sure they felt seen. He carried that same compassion into his love for animals, volunteering with Help Us Help Them Dog Rescue and giving his time and heart to causes that mattered deeply to him.

Johnathan was often called the life of the party, and it fit. His smile lit up every room. His energy was contagious. He had a gift for making people laugh-sometimes with a perfectly timed joke, sometimes with a dramatic flourish, always with love. People describe him as kind, honest, and funny, but he was also thoughtful and sensitive, the kind of person who would go above and beyond for someone he cared about.

Johnathan lived boldly, loved fiercely, and gave generously. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, music, advocacy, and unconditional love. While our hearts are broken, we carry forward his light-the sparkle, the courage, and the joy he shared so freely with all of us.

We will miss him deeply. We will remember him always.