Ta'Shaun Marques Smith

Ta'Shaun Marques Smith, 20, of Massillon, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on January 28, 2026. He was born in Massillon, on October 26, 2005, to Shameika Newman and Michael Smith.

Ta’Shaun was a bright light to all who knew him. He had a smile that could light up a room and a personality that made him unforgettable. A natural jokester, Ta’Shaun loved to debate-often to prove his point-and his humor and charm made him everyone’s favorite cousin. He loved traveling, four-wheeling, and spending time with family and friends. Though he enjoyed cooking, baking was his true passion.

Sports played a huge role in Ta’Shaun’s life. He played football throughout his childhood and high school years and later discovered a remarkable talent for track. What began as a challenge turned into a passion, and Ta’Shaun quickly excelled. He ran indoor track and competed in the 100, 200, and 400 meters. He went to state multiple times with his 4x2 relay team, earning a third-place finish. Ta’Shaun also ran for the AAU, and he qualified for the Junior Olympics in the 100, 200, and 400 meters. He placed 24th out of more than 400 competitors in the 200-meter event. His determination, work ethic, and love for competition defined him both on and off the track.
Ta’Shaun was employed at Kraft Heinz, working in the sanitation department, where he was known as a hardworking and dependable young man. His part-time job was being a spoiled brat and he was very good at it.

Ta'Shaun was preceded in death by his great-grandmother Joyce King; great-grandfather Robert (Bob) Craig; great-great grandfather William Toles, cousin Jamier Newman, Uncle Lawrence Newman Sr, Cousin Lawrence Newman, great-great-grandmother Mattie White, cousin DeAndre White., great-greatmother Rejonia (Granny) Smith, uncle Jeffrey (Buster) Ford.

TaShaun is survived by, his son London Wallace; his siblings , sister Skyy Smith, brothers Kingston Rogers, Michael Smith Jr.,Cameron Smith, grandparents Cameron Papa (Muck) Smith, Jackie (Nene) King, Papa Edward Newman, Shelia (Maw Maw) Newman and great-grandmother Carolyn (Nana) Mack, and great grandmother Sandra Newman; Aunt Lateya Newman Special Uncle Marques Smith and Uncle Brian Bradford, special cousin (sister) Zarianna Newman, girlfriend Myalynn Gallion a host of cousins Aunts and Uncles. Special people Brianna Walton, Layla Myers, and Edwin (Curry) Cleveland, great-grandfather Sherman (Papa) Smith, and a host of uncles, aunts, cousins, family and friends.

Ta’Shaun’s life, though far too short, was filled with love, laughter, and impact. He will be deeply missed and forever remember

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 from 11:00am to 1:00pm at Friendship Baptist Church. A funeral service will begin at 1:00pm, with burial to follow at Oakwood Cemetery.