Mariah Nicole Smith-Ramos

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Ms. Mariah Nicole Smith-Ramos, 26 of Darlington, South Carolina, who transitioned on Wednesday, May 14, 2025.
Mariah Nicole Smith-Ramos was born on October 17, 1998, in Hartford, Connecticut to Jovan D. Smith and Nilsa I. Ramos.
At the age of five, Mariah began residing with her paternal grandmother, Brenda Kemp, in Florence, South Carolina. She was educated in Florence One Schools and graduated from West Florence High School in 2017. During her time there, she was involved in numerous clubs and organizations. She was a member of the Air Force JROTC, where she had the distinguished honor of visiting The Citadel, Military College of South Carolina, for their summer leadership cohort. She was also an active member of the marching band, serving as a flag girl, a member of the Delta Gems, and a student trainer for the athletic department.
After high school, Mariah continued her education at Claflin University, where she pursued a bachelor's degree in elementary education. She later graduated from Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology, preparing her for a successful career as an entrepreneur. Mariah also earned her certification as a nursing assistant through Revived Medical Training.
Mariah was the proud owner and operator of Mariah Slays and was a highly sought-after licensed braider. Her resilience, ambition, and tenacity were evident in the way she worked hard to overcome every hurdle and pursue her dreams to the fullest. Known for her vivacious personality, beautiful smile, and trendsetting style, Mariah truly was a fashionista. Her ability to connect with others made her a stranger to none-by the end of most encounters, she had gained a new best friend. She brightened every space she entered.
Mariah accepted Jesus Christ at a young age and was a member of World Impact Church under the leadership of Pastors Mike and Doris Melvin. She was a member of the praise dance team, where she used her God-given talents to uplift others through powerful performances. At church, Mariah was well-known for her energetic and outgoing personality, forming many lifelong friendships and touching everyone she encountered.
Mariah was a loving daughter, granddaughter, sister, niece, cousin, and friend to many.
Surviving to cherish her memory are her loving parents, Jovan D. Smith of Darlington, SC and Nilsa I. Ramos of Hartford, CT; her paternal grandmother, Brenda G. Kemp of Darlington, SC, whom she affectionately called "Nana"; her paternal grandfather, Claude Smith of Hartford, CT; maternal grandmother and grandfather, Nilsa Lugo and Erasmo Ramos, both of Puerto Rico; brothers: Jovan Desmond, Cam'Ron Eric, and Denzel Malachi Smith, of Hartford, CT; uncle, Wallace Kemp, of Athens, GA, who was like a big brother to her; her loving uncle, Angel Ramos of Puerto Rico; aunt, Norma Ramos of Hartford, CT; her special friend, Anthony Daniels of Florence, SC; and her energetic and outgoing "DOGaughter," Stormi who takes after her mother. She is also remembered by a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and her spiritual family: Pastors Mike and Doris Melvin, Michael (Destiny), Matthew, Dr. Markus, and Mickaela Melvin as well as the entire World Impact Church family, affiliates, and community.
Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate this time of loss and remembrance.
Arrangements are entrusted to:
Ideal Funeral Parlor, Inc.
106 E. Darlington Street
Florence, SC 29506
Memorials and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:
Ideal Funeral Parlor, Inc. 106 E. Darlington Street, Florence, SC 29506