Mariah Smith Obituary: A Life Taken Too Soon

The tragic news of Mariah Smith’s untimely death has left her loved ones and the entire Lake City community in shock and grief. Here are Mariah Smith obituary details. 

At just 12 years old, Mariah had her whole life ahead of her, but it was cut short in a senseless act of violence. 

As her family mourns their loss, they also celebrate Mariah’s life and the joy she brought to those around her.

Remembering Mariah Smith

Mariah Smith was born on January 9, 2011, in Lake City, Florida, to her parents, John and Latasha Smith. 

She was the youngest of their four children and the apple of their eye. Mariah was a vivacious and fun-loving girl who never failed to put a smile on people’s faces.

Mariah was a sixth-grader at Richardson Middle School, where she excelled academically and was well-liked by her teachers and classmates. 

She was passionate about dancing, singing, and playing the piano, and worked hard to perfect her talents. 

In her free time, Mariah loved to spend time with her family and friends and enjoyed playing board games and watching movies.

A Senseless Act of Violence

On the evening of August 24, 2023, tragedy struck the Smith family when Jatarious Rashad Fluellen, a 14-year-old boy, fired several shots into their home. 

One of those shots struck Mariah, who was sitting on the couch at the time. Despite the best efforts of first responders and medical personnel, Mariah was pronounced dead at the scene.

The community was left reeling from this senseless act of violence, and many rallied around the Smith family to offer their support and condolences. 

As the investigation unfolded, Jatarious Rashad Fluellen was identified as the primary suspect in Mariah’s murder and was subsequently arrested and charged. 

The investigation is still in progress, and additional arrests may be made as new information comes to light.

Honoring Mariah Smith’s Life

As the Smith family and the community at large come to terms with Mariah’s passing, they are determined to honor her life and the joy she brought to those around her. 

A viewing will occur on Friday, September 8, 2023, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the New Day Spring Missionary Baptist Church at 709 NW Long St., Lake City, FL.

A special ceremony celebrating Mariah’s life will be held on September 9, 2023, at 12:00 noon at the Columbia County School Board, located at 372 W. Duval St., Lake City, FL. 

Family and friends are invited to attend and pay their final respects to Mariah, who touched so many lives in her short time on Earth.

Closing Thoughts

The loss of Mariah Smith has left an indelible mark on the Lake City community and beyond. 

Her vibrant personality and infectious smile will be sorely missed by all who knew her. As her family and friends grieve, they take comfort in knowing that Mariah’s memory will live on in their hearts forever. 

Rest in peace, Mariah Smith; your light will continue to shine bright.

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