Racine – Michael Leon Smith, 64, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2016. He was born in St. Louis, Missouri on September 7, 1951, the son of Flora Lee Coleman and John Henry Smith, but has lived in Racine since he was a child. Michael graduated from Park High School and attended Boston College before earning his Juris Doctor at UW-Madison.
Michael was a man of many talents, some of which were obvious to everyone and others that were not. He was a skilled drummer and enjoyed playing improvisational jazz. He was inquisitive, creative and enjoyed helping others. Michael was an active and faithful member of the Wayman AME church, where he also served as a member of the Prayer Warriors and as the president of the Lay Ministry organization. After leaving the practice of law, Michael enjoyed a successful career of service with the Racine Kenosha Community Action Agency.
Michael is survived by his son, Jonathan Smith of Racine; his siblings, Dave Minor of Ripon, Rev. Pamela Smith and Zennetta Harvey both of Racine, Valencia Harvey of Washington D.C., and Thomas (Donna) Harvey of Dallas, Texas; special friends, Daisy Young (Jonathan’s mother) and Alan Chavours of Racine, and Deborah Hughes of Boston, Massachusetts; members of the Cotton and Perry families, as well as nephews, nieces and many other dear relatives and friends; and his many friends he has known through the Mount Zion House. Michael was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Zenda Harvey Jr., and sister-in-law Janet Minor.
Homegoing services will be held at the Wayman AME church at 11:00 a.m. on Friday January 8, 2016 with Reverend Earnest Ni’a officiating. Interment will follow at Graceland Cemetery. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Thursday evening from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., and then on Friday in the church beginning at 10 a.m. Memorials to the Wayman AME Church have been suggested.
It is with sincere gratitude and heartfelt thanks that we would like to acknowledge all of the staff, doctors, and nurses at Aurora Healthcare, Aurora Cancer Center, and Aurora at Home hospice for their kindness, caring manner, and devotion which they provided to Michael and our family.
Daris J Hodges says
The Minor, Smith, and Harvey families have my deepest sympathy. I pray 🙏 that God give you all the faith and strength you’ll need.
Diane Bosovich says
Pam,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. My deepest sympathy to you for the loss of your brother. May God grant you peace and strength.
Sincerely,
Diane
Laurie Staves & Tom Orendorff says
Dear Pam, We are very sorry for your loss. Also, we regret we will not be in town for the services. Please know our prayers and thoughts are with you to give you strength and peace during this unfortunate sad time.
Laurie and Tom
cheri pfarr says
Pam, praying the comfort of the Holy Spirit would bring you peace at this difficult time. Sending our love, Brian and Cheri Pfarr
Garisandra Martin-Haynes says
Pam, I always look forward to our talks. Last night’s was hard to swallow. Hearing of the loss of our loved one, Michael. I will always remember Mike, with that Uncle Smitty smile of his. We shared precious memories that will last for a lifetime. God looked around his garden and found an empty space. Then he looked down upon this earth and saw your tired face. He put His arms around you and lifted you to rest. God’s garden is Beautiful cause He only takes the best! Love you cousin Mike. Garisandra (Sandy).
Charles & Glorious Goldsmith Hicks Family says
Our sincere condolences in the lost of your loved one. May God hold you in the cradle of His love.
Carol Barnes -Bryant says
With deepest sympathy to my Wisconsin family. You are in our hearts and prayers. Michael will truly be missed.
Dr. and Mrs. Torrence Stepteau says
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time!
With Deepest Sympathy,
Torrence and Kristi Stepteau
Mr & Mrs Terrance L Ward & FAMILY says
Prayers for all, much love.