Duane A. Smith

An angel came down and gave a precious gift to the proud parents of Nellie and Rudolph Eugene Smith Sr., and to that union Duane Anthony Smith Sr. was born on March 4, 1956, in Akron Ohio. Duane attended Max Hayes High School where he studied electronics and was a member of the varsity basketball team. It was during this time that Duane was chosen as the symbol of youth in a citywide campaign in the fight against drugs. These ads were promptly displayed throughout the Greater Cleveland area on billboards and city buses. Duane served in the United States Marine Corps for 3 years in Yuma, Arizona, as a photographer and received an honorable discharge. He was a member of Dunham Christian Church, and served on the junior usher board. He was a member of Gentlemen of Distinction and Classic Ryders. Duane was also a partner in a music entertainment venture with his brother-in-law, Curtis Wilson and best friend William Byas. Duane met Sandra Steele in 1977. To this union a daughter, Patricia Steele, was born. In August, 1979, Duane met the love of his life Emma Elaine and her daughter Tamika Rucker. During this union 2 children were born, Duane Anthony Smith Jr. and Sheria Renee Smith. Duane served as a Lifeguard and coached basketball at the Salvation Army Hough Corps during his younger years. Later, he worked at The Country Club, as a caddy for a year. Duane was also employed by the United States Government US Dept. of Treasury, as a Revenue Officer .He was eventually promoted to Regional Manager. Duane retired from his position after 35 years of loyal service. He was well loved and respected by his co-workers. His hobbies were chess, pool, basketball, dominos, and telling people what to do. He enjoyed riding in his old schools cars and listening to his old school music. Duane loved his family, but really enjoyed his time spent with the children. Duane Anthony Smith, Sr. was granted his angel wings on May 29th, 2014. His final days were spent at home and The Hospice of the Western Reserve surrounded by family and friends. Although he was man of many words, he meant what he said and said what he meant. He had a heart of compassion, and was generous to others whether family or friends. He served as a father figure to many youth in the community. Duane A. Smith was the epitome of what a real man should be. Duane was preceded in death by his mother Nellie and father, Rudolph Smith Sr. Duane will forever be remembered in our hearts. His memory will be cherished forever by his loving and dedicated wife Emma Elaine; He is survived by his loving children, a son: Duane Jr. (Brittany), 3 daughters: Tamika Rucker, Patricia Steele, and Sheria Smith (Antonio). He is also survived by 4 brothers: Eugene, Darryl (Glenda), Rudolph, Jr. (Patrice), and Raymond (Karen); 3 sisters: Denise Cook, Debra Wilson (Curtis), Diana Johnson (Wilard) all of Cleveland; 4 grandchildren: Markiyah, Alaina, Jeremy, and Jacob, and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and friends. I have fought a good fight. I have finished my course, I have kept my faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day-and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. (2 Tim: 4:7-8). CELEBRATION OF LIFE SERVICES ARE ON TUESDAY, JUNE 10; WAKE 10 AM, FUNERAL SERVIE 10:30 AM AT VICTORY FELLOWSHIP MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH, 5246 BROADWAY AVENUE; INTERMET IN CLEVELAND MEMORIAL GARDENS.