Charisse Smedley was born in Cincinnati, Ohio on May 7, 1965, to the late Herbert Smedley and Darnella Moore. She was called home to glory on July 27, 2024, surrounded by her loving partner and children. She attended Withrow High where she graduated Spring of 1983. Charisse has always had a passion for healthcare and children. She worked for several home health agencies proving her endless love to care for and help others. She was known for her infectious laugh and amazing talent on the dance floor.

She met her beloved partner Michael Cruickson at the age of seventeen. Together they had five beautiful children Valessia, Shenise, Michael, Monquael, and Joshua. She enjoyed many nights in the town with her daughter and nieces, rides around the city and often coordinated many family gatherings. Her home was open to many children at any time, providing them with a safe and loving environment. She loved to celebrate others no matter how big or small the accomplishment.

People knew her for her unwavering loyalty, authenticity, unconditional love, kindness, and contagious laugh. She was also known to be quick-witted and fierce. She was a shining star on a gloomy day. She was a woman of love and laughter. She was known for pouring into individuals with unconditional love; complete with no judgment and especially for those who needed it the most.  Her love surrounded so many people, family, friends, and acquaintances.

She spent many years caring for her sickly parents until they transcended to their final resting place. She became sick shortly after with a diagnosis of early onset Alzheimer's in 2016. Despite her diagnosis and declining health, she continued to dance to Frankley Beverly and Maze, smile contagiously, and light up the room. Her children were her heart, and they put blood, sweat and tears into her care.

She leaves to cherish her memories:  loving partner, Michael Cruickson; her daughters, Valessia, Shenise; sons, Michael, Monquael, Joshua; godson, Cash 'Mir Carter; brother, Darrell Smedley; sister circle, Vanessa Carter, Olivia Cruickson, Roberta Foree, and Yvette Colbert; grandchildren, Jahnya, Tony, Jamarion, Rachel, Tylen, and Lawrence along with a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and in-laws. With so many genuine relationships she fostered there are countless names not mentioned but know she loved and cared for each one of you. Thank you all for being a part of her village. Charisse exemplified love, kindness, and patience. She was intentional about honoring others; she was never self-seeking nor easily angered. She had a pure heart and will be deeply missed.