Obituaries

Jennifer May Smith, 43, of Latonia, Kentucky, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, May 18, 2026.

Born in Texas on October 16, 1982, to Dorothy Elizabeth Smith and Danny Curtis, Jennifer was raised most of her life in Newport, Kentucky. She was preceded in death by her beloved mother and father.

Jennifer was a devoted mother, faithful Christian, and a woman whose kindness, compassion, and love touched countless lives. She carried her faith in God with grace and welcomed everyone with warmth and understanding. To those who knew her best, Jennifer was a light — beautiful inside and out, caring beyond measure, and truly unforgettable.

Her greatest joy in life was her children, Lashawn Anthony Smith, Jasmine Elizabeth Smith, and Nicholas Wayne “Lil Nick” Wilder, whom she loved deeply with all her heart. Being a mother was more than a title to Jennifer — it was her purpose and calling. She gave her family strength, comfort, guidance, and unconditional love every day of her life.

Jennifer will be remembered as one of the most beautiful souls to ever walk this earth, a woman whose love reached far beyond words. She had a remarkable way of touching the lives of everyone she met and leaving a lasting, positive impact on all fortunate enough to know her. Though she is gone from this life, her spirit and the love she shared will live on forever in the hearts of her family, friends, and all whose lives she blessed.

Jennifer’s beautiful life will forever be cherished by her children; her brothers, Tommy Smith and Brandon Smith; her beloved grandchildren, Vivian Smith, Zola Smith, Ezekiel Smith, and Nove Smith; her fiancé of nine years, Kyle Bilby; fifteen nieces and nephews; and a host of extended family members and dear friends.

Jennifer will be deeply missed, but her memory will continue to shine through the many lives she touched with her love, faith, and kindness.

A memorial service and celebration of Jennifer’s life will be scheduled at a later date.