Elysse Smith

Elysse Michelle Smith, lovingly known as “Sugar Mama,” passed away peacefully at her residence on February 5, 2026, at the age of 60.

Born in Columbus, Ohio at St. Ann’s Hospital to Dianne Smith and James Early, Elysse was a proud graduate of Columbus Alternative High School, Class of 1983.

Elysse was truly a jack of many trades. She worked in banking and finance, telecommunications, and car sales — but her heart belonged to children. For more than 10 years, she owned and operated her own childcare and foster services from her home. She didn’t just care for children — she loved them, fed them, prayed over them, and made sure they felt safe.

If you knew Elysse, you knew she could talk. One phone call could turn into hours, followed by a series of clips, screenshots, and hyperlinks she just had to send you. She gave everybody a nickname — whether you wanted one or not — and once she named you, it stuck.

She loved to dance, joke, sing, and make people laugh. A member of Zion Church, she celebrated the Lord boldly. She participated in musicals and choirs and never missed an opportunity to perform or praise.

But her proudest title was “Suga Mama.” She was so happy to celebrate her 60th birthday and would say with a smile, “Sugar Mama is sassy, sexy, and 60!” She adored her grandchildren and made sure they were well-fed with sweet treats, good food, and even sweeter love.

Elysse is survived by her children, Dorrian D. Smith and Kamdyn N. Noble; her grandchildren, Aaron Smith, Dorrian Smith Jr., and Noah Smith; her sisters Sonya (Dexter) Burley and Tiffany Coates; her Aunt Lynne Smith; her special friend Thealeta (Nikki) Jackson and Hattie Harris; and a host of family members and lifelong friends, especially those from Poindexter Village who became family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Dianne Smith and James Early; her grandparents, Benjamin and Dora Smith; her Uncle Benjamin “Benny” Smith; her favorite cousin Tanya Smith, her dearest Barry Day and many close friends who welcomed her home.

Elysse, you can rest now. God is in control.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest…” Matthew 11:28–30

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Elysse Smith, please visit our floral store.