Memorial Service for Dr. Jonathan C. Smith

June 23, 2021

Dear SLU community members and friends, 

Dr. Jonathan Smith had a profound impact on the lives of many at Saint Louis University, throughout our local community, and well beyond. 

We continue to feel heartbreak over his passing on Saturday. His 61 years on this Earth were a blessing to all who knew and loved him. Stories shared by his family and friends highlight the countless gifts he shared with others as an educator, a colleague, an activist, a philosopher, a poet and –– his most treasured role –– as a very proud “father of daughters.” 

Dr. Smith’s loved ones, Blessed Hope Missionary Baptist Church, and Saint Louis University invite you to celebrate Jonathan’s life at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, June 30 at Chaifetz Arena. The Arena doors will open at 9 a.m. 

Light refreshments will be served following the service outside of the north entrance of Chaifetz Arena. 

Registration is not required to attend the service. Everyone is welcome. A livestream of the memorial will be available for those who are unable to attend. That livestream –– and a video recording after the service –– will be posted here. You can also use that webpage to share memories, photos and videos of Dr. Smith that will be shared with his family. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to consider supporting causes that were close to Dr. Smith’s heart. 

• The Jonathan C. Smith, Ph.D., Scholarship at Saint Louis University: Established in memory of Dr. Smith, a fierce advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion at Saint Louis University. The endowed scholarship will support St. Louis high school students who demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. 
• The Black Rep Theatre: Poetry and the arts were a huge part of Dr. Smith’s scholarship and life. Dr. Smith has long been involved with St. Louis’ Black Rep Theatre, most recently serving as the President of its Board of Directors. 

Information and donation links are available on the memorial webpage for Dr. Smith. You will also find information about COVID-19 protocols, parking, seating and more on that page. 

We are called to celebrate and remember someone who gave so much to so many. 

Our University family continues to pray for Rochelle, his girls, mother Willie Mae Smith, siblings and relatives. And next Wednesday, we will gather together to support them as OneSLU. 

In sympathy, 

Fred P. Pestello, Ph.D.
President