Smith was killed by her boyfriend, Jordan Jackson-Small, who has been charged with murder, weapons possession, and endangering the welfare of a child, according to authorities.
She leaves behind her 3-year-old son, her parents Monique Rance-Helper and Rawni Helper, two younger siblings, and a wide circle of friends, colleagues, and loved ones who are now grappling with an unimaginable loss.
A life of talent, light, and promise
Smith was remembered by her family as a “vivacious, loving, and fiercely talented” young woman whose passion for performing lit up every room she entered. A true triple-threat performer, she was best known for portraying Young Nala on Broadway in The Lion King, a role that reflected the joy, creativity, and warmth she brought into the world.
“She had her whole life ahead of her,” her family wrote, emphasizing not only her talent, but her deep love for her son and her devotion to those closest to her.
Family steps in to raise her son
In the wake of Smith’s death, her parents are now facing the dual burden of grieving their daughter while stepping in to raise her young son and care for their two other children during an intensely traumatic time.
To help support them, Smith’s aunt, Kira Helper, has organized a GoFundMe campaign with a goal of raising $50,000.
In the fundraiser message, Helper described the tragedy as “senseless” and said the funds are intended to help the family navigate the many immediate and long-term costs that come with such a loss.
What the fundraiser will support
According to the GoFundMe page, donations will help cover:
• Funeral and memorial expenses
• Crime scene cleanup at Smith’s home
• Trauma therapy for Smith’s son, siblings, and parents
• Time off work to grieve, provide care, and attend legal proceedings
• Legal and administrative costs
• Ongoing care and support for Smith’s young son
• Care for Smith’s beloved dog, Kuro
Smith’s mother, Monique Rance-Helper, works as a Broadway and TV/film hairdresser, a freelance role that offers little financial security during extended time away from work.
A community asked to remember and support
The family says the $50,000 goal reflects only a fraction of what lies ahead, noting that “the true cost of trauma, loss, and long-term healing is impossible to know right now.”
Their hope is that the funds will allow Smith’s parents to focus on what matters most: caring for their grandson, supporting their children, and grieving their daughter without the added fear of financial instability.
“Any contribution, no matter the amount, helps lift a small part of the weight our family is carrying,” Helper wrote. “If you are unable to donate, sharing this page and keeping Imani, her son, and our family in your prayers means more than we can express.”
Imani Dia Smith is remembered not only for her talent on stage, but for the love, light, and promise that defined her far-too-short life.
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