Michael (Lansing) Smith

Mr. Michael Darnell Smith, age 64, passed away Friday, March 11, 2016 at McLaren Hospital in Lansing, Michigan. He was the youngest of nine children who was born July 19, 1951 in Huntington, West Virginia to William P. and Lillie Mae Smith.





Michael attended Barnett Elementary and Huntington High Schools. He accepted Jesus Christ as a member of First Baptist Church in Huntington at an early age. When Michael was in his teens, he was a member of the Premiers, a celebrated band from Huntington. The pinnacle of his time with the band was appearing at the famed Apollo Theatre in New York City. He was an extraordinary guitar player and musician. Subsequently, Michael moved to Denver, Colorado and became friends with Philip Bailey and Andrew Woolfolk. Philip Bailey invited him to Los Angeles to play with Maurice White in the group we know as Earth, Wind & Fire, unfortunately, family commitments altered the plan. Eventually, Michael came to Lansing, Michigan and worked for Motor Wheel Corporation. He attended Lansing Community College and received a degree in electronic technology and was listed on the Deans List for academic excellence. He was a talented athlete and could out play most of his peers in basketball and baseball.





Michael had a gentle heart and would give his last dollar to help anyone in need. He was quiet, enjoyed reading, and a good game of chess. Michael was an avid lover of most things sweet pies, cakes, cookies, ice cream, etc. However, he was always up for a lively debate on politics and social issues. Though sometimes shy (hence the sunglasses he constantly wore indoors) he never tired of learning and trying new things. His belief in educational excellence was a value he instilled in his children and grandchildren.





He leaves to cherish his memory three daughters, Dayna Mishel, Lansing, Michigan, Monica, Frankfort, Kentucky, Telese, Columbus, Ohio; one son, Gerald, of Lansing, Michigan; four grandchildren, Augustus Lee, Taylor, Nyah and Nyssa; two sisters, Miriam Riddle, of Lansing, Michigan, Jackie (Ronnie) Calloway, of Denver, Colorado; one brother, Jimmie (Orpha) Smith, Phoenix, Arizona; many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends including former wife of many years, Bonita Smith.