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Renowned reggae artist Ernie Smith, whose real name was Glenroy Anthony Michael Archangelo Smith, passed away on Thursday, April 16, just shy of his 81st birthday on May 1. The beloved musician succumbed to two heart attacks at the University of Miami hospital. His wife, Claudette Bailey-Smith, confirmed his passing and shared a heartfelt tribute.
Claudette expressed her profound sorrow through a Facebook post, accompanied by a cherished photo of the couple. “With a heart shattered by loss, yet overflowing with love and gratitude, I want to thank each and every person who prayed for my beloved husband, Ernie Smith. Your prayers, messages, kindness, and support from Jamaica and across the world have carried me and our family through the darkest hours of our lives. Ernie was not only my husband, he was the love of my life, my best friend, my safe place, my laughter, and my greatest blessing. He was the man who filled every room with light, joy, wisdom, and warmth. To the world, he was a legend whose music touched generations. To me, he was everything…Thank you for loving Ernie. Thank you for honoring him. Thank you for standing with us. Sleep peacefully, my love. Until we meet again,” she wrote.
The singer of “Life Is Just For Living” was admitted to the hospital on April 7, spending his last days in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) after receiving dialysis treatment. Claudette commended the hospital staff for their outstanding care during this challenging time.
On April 9, two days into his hospital stay, Ernie underwent surgery. Though the procedure was successful, he remained heavily sedated and reliant on a ventilator. He also underwent a treatment to clear mucus from his lungs.
Throughout his illustrious career, Ernie Smith was recognized with numerous accolades, including the Badge of Honour for Meritorious Service in the Field of Music, awarded by the Jamaican government in 1973.
Tributes flooded in for the star as news of his death became public. Writing on Facebook one fan said: “Rest in power, Ernie Smith. You reminded us that ‘life is just for living’, and now that your race is run, your legacy lives on.”
Another recalled: “RIP Legend Ernie Smith. I will always cherish the moments when I watched you entertain people at World Cup 98′ at the Jamaica Village in Paris, France. You were such an Ambassador anywhere you went representing Jamaica and its culture. Walk good Bredrin. You will be greatly missed.”
A third chimed in: “Tonight I extend my sincere condolences to the family, friends, and many fans worldwide of the legendary Ernie Smith….this musical giant who gave us many hits including ‘Ride on Sammy’, ‘One Dream’, ‘Life Is Just For Living’ . ‘Pitta Patta’. ‘Duppy or Gunman’ ‘I for Jesus’ and many more….His voice, spirit, and legacy will live on forever….Rest peacefully, Legend. You were deeply loved, and you will never be forgotten.”
A fourth lamented: “Involuntary tears escaped my eyes as I absorbed the sad news of the passing of veteran and beloved Jamaican Musician Ernie Smith…I am so grateful for the memories and for his music! For me, he lives on. So take your well earned rest Ernie Smith, we will remember you, always.”
Meanwhile a fifth commented: “Tonight, my heart feels especially heavy, hearing of the passing of Ernie Smith. His voice was more than music – it was warmth, storytelling, and a true reflection of Jamaican soul…Rest well, sir. Your melody will linger, your words will remain, and your legacy will continue to echo through generations…Forever remembered. Forever appreciated.”