Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1945
DIED
2024
FUNERAL HOME
Grant Smith Obituary
In 1981, Wayne and Senator Breaux conceived the idea for Louisiana Alive!, a celebration of Louisiana's diverse culture. The event aimed to showcase the state's music, cuisine, and heritage. Wayne's extraordinary creativity and dedication were instrumental in this initiative, and Louisiana Alive! 2025 will honor his legacy.
In 1987, Wayne founded ThePOTOMACGroup, leading it as President and CEO. He also served as Vice Chair of the Washington International School and was a long-time board member of the CASI Foundation for Children. Wayne's life was marked by 37 years of sobriety, through which he helped many others. His crowning achievement came in 1999 when he and Don adopted their son, Qwan. As a devoted and supportive father, Wayne nurtured Qwan with boundless love and guidance, playing a pivotal role in his development into the remarkable gentleman he is today.
Wayne is survived by his loving husband, Don Schimanski, their son, Qwan Schimanski Smith, and his extended family. His legacy of empathy, wisdom, and compassion continues to inspire those who knew him.
Relatives and friends are invited to call at JOSEPH GAWLER'S SONS, INC., 5130 Wisconsin Avenue, N.W, Washington, DC on June 13 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Memorial Donations may be made to The Triangle Club 1638 R St NW #120 Washington, DC 20009.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Grant Smith
4 Entries
Marilyn Richmond
June 22, 2024
Dear Wayne,
May you rest in peace. Family, friends and colleagues miss you greatly. Your unforgettable smile and laughter would light up a room. Your steady hand, determination and unwavering commitment to helping others led to countless lifetime achievements. And, your perseverance through the darkest of times has inspired hope in all of us. Until we meet again, my friend.
Marilyn
MARCIA JONES ALFARO
June 15, 2024
Wayne was a Lighthouse. His kindness, twinkling eyes, impish smile, and openess about his struggles created a safe and calming presence to be around.
His authenticity called to many of us to keep going, that it is ok not to be ok.
He stood tall, shined bright, as if calling us all home to our best selves. He will always be that lighthouse for me. I am forever grateful.
Hugs and love to his beautiful family.
Love you Wayne. thank you
Marcia Jones Alfaro
Michele Steinberg
June 12, 2024
Dear Don and Qwan. Our very deep condolences on the passing of Wayne, who we knew through Holy Trinity RCIA. We remember him as a brilliant man who we talked with often along with the young participants, Joseph and Jin, to name a couple of special friends. We moved away from the DC area, but the years at RCIA and the richness of thoughts and discussions stay with us always. We remember Wayne in our prayers. Sincerely, Michele & Jeff Steinberg
Tommy Payne
June 11, 2024
One of the great pleasures in my life has been knowing and working with Wayne Smith. A total professional in his work who also happened to be one of the nicest people, every day, you could find on the planet. Wayne, Don and Qwan were a loving, happy family who have inspired many through the years. The angels now have a great one with them but I know many will miss him and what he brought into our lives.
Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results
Make a Donation
in Grant Smith's name
Memorial Events
for Grant Smith
Jun
13
Calling hours
4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Joseph Gawler’s Sons, LLC5130 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016
How to support Grant'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 Grant 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 more
