By Westside Gazette Publisher Bobby Henr, Special Contributor Dr. Yvette Giles Stuart and Marna Mobley
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL. — Fort Lauderdale is mourning the loss of LaDesorae “Desorae” Rozier Giles-Smith, a devoted wife, mother, and public servant whose career of more than three decades left an indelible mark on South Florida. She passed away on September 24, 2025, at the age of 60.
Early Life and Education
Born in Fort Lauderdale on August 30, 1965, to her loving parents, Leveorn and Laura Giles, Desorae was rooted in the community she would later dedicate her life to serving. A proud graduate of Blanche Ely High School, she carried her drive for excellence into higher education, earning a bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida’s College of Journalism and a master’s degree from Florida Atlantic University.
Cecelia Wright-Ward, a fellow Delta Sigma Theta Soror and high school classmate from Blanche Ely, fondly recalled early days with Giles-Smith. “Desorae and I played the clarinet in Ely’s marching band,” said Wright-Ward, who now lives in Ocoee, Fla. “We weren’t supposed to eat while wearing our uniforms; however, we used to sneak snacks and eat them in between songs.”
A Distinguished Career Defined by Firsts
Giles-Smith began her career with the city of Lauderhill as an administrative aide in the Mayor’s Office. Her remarkable leadership propelled her through the ranks where she served as Administrative Manager, Director of Human Resources and Risk Management, and Assistant City Manager.
She achieved a groundbreaking milestone when she was the first African American and first female appointed as Deputy City Manager. She later capped her career as City Manager of Lauderhill, retiring in 2024, a tenure defined by breaking barriers and serving her city with distinction.
Beyond City Hall, Desorae’s commitment to service connected her with many, including Audrelia Allen. Allen, who shared bonds with Giles-Smith through the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., the All-Star Christmas Giveaway, and as wives of members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., highlighted her friend’s modesty. “Even after breaking barriers as the City of Lauderhill’s first African American and first female City Manager and serving that city for more than 35 years, you would never know the power she held because of her profound humility,” Allen said. “She was such a loving, heartfelt person, who was willing to do anything for anyone.”
Colleagues remember Giles-Smith as a firm but compassionate leader who consistently championed fairness, inclusion, and opportunity for all residents.
Burnadette Norris-Weeks, Esq., a fellow member of the North Broward Chapter of The Links, Inc., and Delta Sigma Theta Soror, praised Giles-Smith’s approach to leadership. “Desorae was one of those ‘quiet-storm’ people who created ripples for change that will resonate long after she’s gone,” Norris-Weeks said. “She exemplified the values we hold dear, demonstrating profound integrity and compassion. Her generous spirit inspired us all to work harder.”
Service Beyond City Hall
Giles-Smith’s influence extended far beyond government. Embodying commitment to service, scholarship, and sisterhood, she was a dedicated and active member of numerous civic and professional organizations, including the International Personnel Management Association, Society for Human Resources Management, National Forum of Black Public Administrators, NAACP, Junior League of Fort Lauderdale, and many more.
Her commitment continued with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (Broward County Alumnae Chapter), The Links, Inc. (North Broward Chapter) and Jack and Jill of America, Inc. (Fort Lauderdale Chapter).
According to Damita Salters, President of the Broward County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc., Giles-Smith was a key figure in the sorority’s local history. Initiated in 1993, she was a founding member who helped charter the Pompano Beach Alumnae Chapter, which is now the North Broward Alumnae Chapter. Salters also noted that Giles-Smith was highly involved in social action, adding, “She was instrumental in helping our chapter obtain the Dr. Kathleen C. Wright Life Development Center,” named in honor of the Soror who was the first African American member of the Broward County School Board.
Lisa Ivory, Jack and Jill of America, Inc.’s newly elected Southeastern Regional Director, reflected on Giles-Smith’s unwavering support over their 11-year friendship. “Desorae was one of my biggest supporters. She called, texted, encouraged me, came to help me with the campaign, and to celebrate, and I didn’t know that during that time she knew what she was dealing with, in terms of her illness; and yet, she still found a way to show up.”
Saunja Terrell Burt, President of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chapter of Jack & Jill of America, Inc., further commented on Giles-Smith’s quiet strength. “Desorae was just so dynamic in a quiet way. She’s one of those people who didn’t have to say a lot – she let her actions speak louder than her words. As much as she gave to others, I hope she felt that people loved her as much as she gave.”
She lent her time and vision to causes ranging from education to cultural preservation, serving with organizations such as the Sistrunk Historical and Nature Preservation Society, Fort Lauderdale Jack and Jill Nursery Board, Midtown Business Association, the Northwest Democratic Club, and the Broward County Early Learning Coalition.
Giles-Smith’s extensive service was recognized through numerous awards from the Girl Scouts of America, American Cancer Society, Boys and Girls Clubs of Broward County, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and the Fort Lauderdale Charmettes, honoring her unwavering commitment to community empowerment.
Alfreda Coward, Esq., a longtime friend and member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Broward County Alumnae Chapter, spoke of their bond. “Desorae was one of my dearest friends for 25 years. I had the pleasure of being with her through great times and was blessed to be with her during her final hour.” Coward added, “I don’t think Dez had a clue of her value – of how very much she meant to all of us. She was our goalpost – the model for which everyone should strive to be.”
Family and Legacy
At the heart of Desorae’s extraordinary life was her family. She is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Senator Christopher L. Smith, and their two sons, Christopher Smith and Christian Smith.
Senator Smith offered a testament to her priorities. “Dez was devoted to our two children, to our employees, and to the community. She provided unconditional love to all three.”
Lisa Ivory echoed this sentiment, focusing on Giles-Smith’s devotion to her sons. “Yes, she broke barriers as a professional, but her most inspiring accomplishment was her role as a mother. What I admired the most was how selflessly she loved, supported, and shared words of love and wisdom with Christopher and Christian.”
LaFae Bacon, Giles-Smith’s first cousin from Fort Pierce, extolled her virtues. “I admired my cousin Desorae for being a woman of grace – a true Proverbs 31 woman who carried herself with grace. I’m going to miss her.”
Giles-Smith leaves a legacy of perseverance, love, and service. Her life stands as a testament to the power of dedication, the importance of representation, and the beauty of a servant’s heart. She blazed a trail for women, African Americans, and all who seek to make government responsive to the people it serves.
Final Tribute
The Westside Gazette family joins the community in saluting the remarkable life of LaDesorae Rozier Giles-Smith. May her memory inspire future generations to lead with courage, give with humility, and live with purpose.
CELEBRATION OF LIFE
Forever in Our Hearts
LaDesorae Rozier Giles-Smith
MEMORIAL SERVICE
The Faith Center
5555 NW 95th Ave., Sunrise, FL 33351
Friday, October 3, 2025
Public Viewing 5:00 PM • Program 6:15 PM
FUNERAL SERVICE
New Mount Olive Baptist Church
400 NW 9th Ave., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311
Saturday, October 4, 2025
Public Viewing 10:00 AM • Homegoing 11:00 AM
SERVICES ENTRUSTED TO:
James C. Boyd Funeral Home
2324 Sistrunk Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311
Ph: (954) 584-3940
