Laretha Smith

Laretha Renee McKnight Smith departed this world December 23, 2025 to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Laretha was born in Chicago, IL but would later make Knoxville, TN her home. She worked many years at Walgreens, Austin East High School and Holston middle school before retiring. Laretha loved spending time with family. She enjoyed telling stories and laughing with them any time that they would get together.  She mostly loved spending time with her grand and great grandchildren. Laretha was a child of God who was very dedicated to her Christian faith. Laretha was a bright and shining star that will truly be missed by all that knew her.

She is preceded in death by mother, Mabel McKnight, sons, Kevin Smith, Jeffrey Stokes, and Sandford Stokes; grandson, Kevin "Man-Man" Smith Jr.; and ex-husband, Clifford Smith Sr.

She leaves to cherish her memory son, Clifford Smith Jr. (Beverly), grandchildren, Janiqua Smith, A’Jerico Smith, Jalisa Waterson, Tiffany (Joseph) Kirk, Jamiracle Suber and Devin and Kevion Smith; step grandchildren, Mercedes Pratt, Chris Brown, Devon Brown, and Monique Brown, Great Grandchildren, Jazz’yhra Cooke, Keyaubrey Patrick, Apollow Patrick, Adonis Patrick, Arianna Smith, Willow Smith, De’Wayne Smith, Niylah Smith, D.J. Waterson Jr., Khari Waterson, Noni Waterson, DeAndre Watson, Zyireasia Smith, Andrea Freeney, Jeremiah Moore, Chevaun Ragland, Zyus Zaevin, Zahir, Zamonia, and Zamar Smith; step great grandchildren, Ava Brown, No’ell Fillicetti,  Devion Pratt, Jermarcus Pratt, Zariyah Brown, and Zaylen Brown; brother, Van McKnight; nieces, Vannessa McKnight, Renauda McKnight, and Candas Kimber; and a host of other family and friends to include close friends, Avonia Smith, Charlotte Smith,  Candy Johnson, Shawnetta Smith , and Ms. Rita.

Family will receive friends Friday January 2, 2026 from 12 to 1pm at Open Door Church, 2806 Sherman St, Knoxville, TN 37921, with funeral services to follow. Rev. Steve Simpson officiating. 

Final arrangements entrusted to Jarnigan & Son Mortuary. www.jarniganandson.com