Dontae Andrew James Smith was born on July 25, 1991, in Los Angeles, California, to Myra J. Slaughter and the late Donald Ray Smith. He departed this life unexpectedly on July 13, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of deep love, loyalty, and light.

Dontae was a man known by many names, a reflection of how many lives he touched and the many layers of his remarkable spirit. Throughout his life, he lived fully, fearlessly, and with intention. He wore many hats and embraced many roles, leaving lasting impressions everywhere he went. He was charismatic, kind-hearted, and humorous — the kind of man who could light up any room with his presence. His loyalty ran deep, his honesty was unwavering, and his character truly one of a kind.

He was the kind of man others aspired to be: solid, dependable, and selfless. He looked out for everyone he loved. To his family and friends, Dontae was a real-life superhero. He made us feel safe, protected, and deeply loved. His personality was magnetic, his presence powerful, and his heart pure. He was, without question, the best man many of us ever knew.

Dontae was also proudly a mama's boy. One of his favorite things to do was pop up at his mother's house just to check on her and say hello. He affectionately called her "Honey Bun," and that bond was sacred to him. His love for his mother was loud, consistent, and filled with admiration.

Music was his passion, but his greatest love was his family. Dontae was a devoted father, deeply committed to guiding his children through life with love, wisdom, and strength. He made it his mission to teach them the life lessons they'd need to succeed, not just in the world, but within themselves. He found joy in the little moments: spontaneous ice cream runs on hot summer days, watching wrestling with the girls, and slow Sundays at home while Michaela cooked his favorite meals.

His favorite meal was anything that came with collard greens and macaroni and cheese, and Michaela had perfected the recipes just the way he liked them. He would often joke that he wanted to lose weight, but he loved her cooking too much to ever turn it down. Their home was filled with love, laughter, and the kind of comfort that only a deep bond can bring.

Dontae shared an unconditional and unbreakable love with his fiancée, Michaela Merrick. Their love story began in 2017, and although life took them on separate paths, they found their way back to each other in 2020. From that moment forward, they were inseparable. Their relationship was built on loyalty, trust, and true love — you didn't see one without the other. Together, they dreamed boldly, loved deeply, and built a life rooted in faith, friendship, and the shared goal of keeping their blended family whole.

He was a loving father to four incredible children: Rylee Smith, Payton Smith, Daiyan Dior Smith, and his bonus daughter, Channing Jones. His only son, Daiyan, was especially close to his heart — Dontae personally chose his name, which means "the mighty ruler," "guard," or "protector." That name reflected the strength and love he poured into fatherhood.

Dontae is survived by his children, his fiancée Michaela, his mother Myra J. Slaughter, his brothers Destin Smith and Rafiki Smith, his grandmother ("Grammy"), three uncles, four aunties, a host of cousins, his mother-in-law, affectionately known as Mama Dee, his father-in-law, his brother-in-law and his sister-in-law. He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Ray Smith Sr., his brother, Donald Ray Smith Jr., and his paternal grandmother, Annie Wallace.

Though his time here was far too short, Dontae lived a full and meaningful life — one rich with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were blessed to know him.

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." - Psalm 34:18

Public Visitation for Mr. Smith will be held on Friday, July 25, 2025 from 6PM-8PM in the Legends Chapel at Power of Faith International 3355 Columbia Drive, Decatur Georgia 30034. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at 11AM in the Legends Chapel at Power of Faith International 3355 Columbia Drive 30034 with Bishop James T. Jackson, Pastor/Eulogist. Mr. Smith will lie instate from 10AM until hour of service. Interment will follow in Resthaven Garden Of Memory, 2284 Candler Road, Decatur, GA 30032.

PREFERRED FLORIST: Willis Flowers 770-774-3446 . Flowers may be delivered to 3355 Columbia Drive, Decatur, GA 30032 on Friday July 25, 2025 from 3PM-8PM