Felicia Denise (Dates) Smith

Felicia Denise “Lisa” Smith, 54, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2026. Born on August 31, 1971, to Erma J. Chapman and Willie J. Dates, Jr., Lisa was a woman of deep faith, compassion, and joy who touched countless lives through her kindness, humor, and unwavering love for family and friends.
Lisa graduated from Southside High School and Brown Mackie College and enjoyed a successful career in healthcare administration and medical billing. In 2000, she married the love of her life, Melvin Coker Smith, with whom she shared more than 26 years of cherished memories.
A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend, Lisa enjoyed reading, knitting, traveling, and spending time with loved ones. Her faith was the foundation of her life, and she found great comfort in Psalm 23.
Lisa leaves to cherish her memory her husband, Melvin Smith; her children, Michael Dates (Oluwatoyin), Catherine Norris (Gregory), Shambre Dates, Terry Dates, and Daysha Charlton; her grandchildren; her mother, Erma J. Chapman (James); her siblings; and a host of extended family members and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her father, Willie J. Dates, Jr.; her brother, Willie J. Dates III; and her beloved dog, Jay Jay.
Lisa's legacy of faith, love, laughter, and kindness will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

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