Valandar C. Smith

VALANDAR'S JOURNEY HOME Valandar Charles Smith (affectionately known as Main), was born on January 26, 1968 to the union of Willie M. and Sarah J. Hucks Smith in Lincoln Park, Michigan. He was the youngest of six children. His beloved parents, brother Darryl, and sister, Camilla preceded him in death. Education: Valandar was educated in the Ecorse Public Schools System and was a proud graduate of the Class of 1986. He excelled academically and played Varsity Football and Wrestling Teams where he processed great leadership skills. In 1989 he enlisted in the U.S. Army as a reservist and received a diploma in Power Generation Equipment Repair. Val continued his scholastic journey at Northern Michigan and Norfolk State University. He loved learning and advancing his education by later attending Davenport University. In 2000, he graduated and received his Degree in Business Administration. In 2003, he earned his Master’s Degree at Madonna University in Human Resources Administration. In 1989, Valandar found employment at the Ford Motor Company in Dearborn, MI. Where he held various positions before become Human Resource Labor Relations Representative. Christian Life: Valandar accepted Christ as at an early age at New Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church under the founding pastor, Rev. Lawrence Thomas Sr. While attending Solid Rock Baptist Church, he became an Ordained Deacon under the Leadership of Reverend Tucker. In 2000 Valandar and his Family joined Triumph Church under the leadership of Pastor Solomon Kinloch, Jr. He had a great love for God’s word and it was not long before his gifts became evident and encouraged by the membership. Val continued to serve the Lord as a Deacon, Men Usher Board member, and occasionally would participate with the male choir. Meeting the Love of his Life: On June 20, 1998, Valandar joined in holy matrimony to his best friend Andrea Smith. There’s a story that Val stalked his wife before courting her for six months before asking her for her hand in marriage. From this union two beautiful children were born totaling 3 with their eldest daughter Destanee. Val was not only a Loving Husband but he was a devoted Family man. There are many cherishing moments that he has left for his Family to continue to hold close in their hearts. Valandar made his transition, Tuesday October 8, 2019. He leave to cherish his memory his loving wife and friend Andrea; two beautiful daughters, Destanee and Alexis; one son, Alexander; sisters Angela and Karen; brother Anthony Sr.; nieces Sharvonte (Shontia) Page, LaShawnda; nephews Vionte’, Damontae’, Michael II, Anthony Jr., and Dominque; great niece Cassidy, Ryleigh Kia, Makayla; great nephews Braden, Michael III, DaWayne, Kayden and Brayden; Mother in Love, Bernice Jemison. Aunts: Ruby Quinn (New Orleans, LA); Essie Granderson, Willie Mae Hucks (Yazoo City, MS); Annie (Leo) Williams (Van Buren AK), Bettye Davis (Clinton Twp, MI), Loree Hucks (Detroit, MI), Shirley (Johnny) Haynes (Detroit, MI, and Ida Howard ( River Rouge, MI; Uncles: Rufus (Louise) Jemison ( Detroit, MI), Robert (Van) Jemison (Las Vegas, NV) sister in law Willetta (Michael)Alexander, Shantel(Brian) Wheeler; godchildren Aramis and Addison. He leaves to cherish his memory a Brother Hood of his closest Friends. Valandar will truly be missed by his entire Family and Friends and his class of 86. POEMS Brother of mine, you were always there. Through thick and thin we laughed and cried. Wonderful memories only we can share of childhood days when we stood side by side. (Because mama said I couldn't leave the house without taking you along) We bickered and argued like all kids do, but our love for each other was always there. I knew I could always rely on you and that you would never cease to care. My brother, I'm trying to deal with why did this happen to you, to a kind, loyal, loving dad? For you to leave us so swiftly, grieving and sad. I'm sad because I could do so little for you but hug you and give you a gentle kiss, and pray your strength would see you through. You have given your family so much love, and you've always been my friend. I know you'll watch over us from above and be there for me at my life's end. Your loving sister, Ann My Little Brother It's Hard Letting Go The Angels gathered near your side So very close to you For they knew the pain and suffering, That you were going through I thought about so many things, As I held tightly to your hand Oh how I wished that you were strong And happy once again. But your eyes were looking homeward To that place beyond the sky When Jesus held his outstretched arms It was time to say goodbye I struggled with my selfish thoughts For I wanted you to stay So we could talk again Like we did just the other day. But Jesus know the answer And I knew you loved him so, So I gave to you life's greatest gift The Gift of Letting Go Remembering always your sister, Net (Karen) Please feel free to leave a note of condolence on our tribute page.

Valandar C. Smith

January 26, 1968 - October 8, 2019