Carlton Lajuan Smalley Jr.

REFLECTIONS OF LIFE...

Carlton Lajuan Smalley was born on April 13, 1988 in Michigan City, IN to Carlton Smalley and Tammy Roberts. Carlton was also known as “Lala”. 

Carlton attended a nursing program in Indianapolis, IN where he obtained his CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) License. He loved to care for his patients with many physical and complex tasks. He gave them hope, love, and brought joy to their lives. He also attended the HOPE Program in his younger years, where he developed a love for dance and musical plays. From there, he continued to dance until his untimely death. He stormed the nation with his performances, hosting in several cities the “Lala Land” Ball. He was loved by all who attended. His infectious spirit drew people to him. He became a “LEGEND” amongst his family, friends and peers.

Carlton departed this life at the age of 34 on December 30, 2022 at home in Indianapolis, Indiana with his brother, Andre, by his side.

He leaves to cherish his memory: His brothers, Andre Tillman; Indianapolis, IN, Jarvis Smalley; Chicago, IL, Reno Reddick; Cleveland, OH, sisters, JacQues Okonkwoasika, Tieioko Lenoir; both of Michigan City, IN, and Nicole (Michael) Bardett; Indianapolis, IN, two nephews, AnDarious Steppe; Michigan City, IN, QuAndrea Shy; Padukah, KY, one niece, Aries Tillman; Michigan City, IN, two great nieces, Ari Steppe and A’drea Shy, aunts, Iris (Tony) Richardson, Ester Stone, Anitra (Antonio) White, and Neoica Byrd, uncles, Andrew Wensey and Wilton Coleman, and best friend, Anthony Hinton.

He will be welcomed in heaven by his parents, Carlton Smalley and Tammy Roberts; maternal grandmother, Alice Stone; maternal grandfather, Gussy Coleman, and maternal great grandmother, Coreane Roberts.

Carlton AKA "LALA" Smalley 34, of Indianapolis, Indiana departed this life on December 30, 2022 in Indy.

A Celebration of life will be Friday, January 13, 2023 at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 1301 N. Goodlet Ave. Indianapolis, Indiana 46222 at 12 noon (EST).  Viewing will be 11am until time of service at the Church. Internment will be private.

 Carlton will always be remembered by ALL his cousins, family, and friends.

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