As a father first, Lil Jon is navigating a loss no parent is prepared for. The hip-hop icon and former HGTV personality shared a devastating update after the death of his only son, Nathan “DJ Young Slade” Smith.
On the first day of Ramadan, Jon revealed that his son had been laid to rest, asking for prayers, mercy, and strength as he and his family mourn an unimaginable loss.
Lil Jon Reveals Son Was Laid to Rest During Ramadan
Jon addressed his followers in a deeply emotional post, writing:
“On the first day of Ramadan yesterday, we laid my only son to rest. In this holy month, I’m asking for extra du’a for him and for our family.
Please pray that Allah grants him Jannah and grants us sabr, mercy, and strength. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un.
I love you, son. Life will never be the same without you. Allah, give me strength. Also, thank you to everyone who has reached out with condolences, love, and prayers. We appreciate you all. ❤️
I will make sure the world knows your talent and never forgets your name. Nathan Murray Smith.”
The post marked one of the most personal moments Jon has ever shared publicly.
Earlier Emotional Tributes to Nathan ‘DJ Young Slade’ Smith
In the days following Nathan’s passing, Jon opened his heart in a series of raw social media messages.
He shared a video filled with photos of father and son through the years, writing, “THIS HURTS SO BAD. 💔 I LOVE YOU, SON.”
In another tribute, Jon reflected on Nathan’s creative journey, writing, “SLADE RELEASED THIS WHEN HE GRADUATED FROM COLLEGE. HE WAS SO HAPPY TO EXPRESS HIS ART N DO IT HIMSELF. I WAS SO PROUD OF HIM FOR DOING JT ALL ON HIS OWN.”
The messages prompted an outpouring of support from fans and fellow artists.
Details Surrounding Nathan Smith’s Death
Nathan Smith, 27, was reported missing after he was last seen leaving his home in Milton, Georgia, under unusual circumstances. As per NBC, Police later confirmed that his body was found in a pond near the residence.
Authorities said foul play was not suspected. The medical examiner is responsible for determining the official cause and manner of death.
In an earlier statement, as reported by NBC, Jon confirmed the devastating news, writing:
“I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of our son, Nathan Smith. His mother (Nicole Smith) and I are devastated,” Lil Jon wrote. “Nathan was the kindest human being you would ever meet. He was immensely caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate, and warmhearted — he loved his family and the friends in his life to the fullest.”
“He was an amazingly talented young man; a music producer, an artist and engineer, and a graduate of NYU,” the statement said.
An NYU spokesperson confirmed that Nathan earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the Tisch School of the Arts in 2020.
A Father’s Promise to Honor His Son’s Legacy
GettyJon, whose real name is Jonathan Smith, built a larger-than-life persona in music with hits including “Turn Down For What.” But in recent days, he has shared a far quieter side of himself.
“We loved Nathan with all of our hearts and are incredibly proud of him. He was loved and appreciated, and in our last times together, we were comforted in knowing that we expressed that very sentiment to him,” Lil Jon said. “Thank you for all of the prayers and support in trying to locate him over the last several days.”
Now, as he mourns the loss of his only child, Jon has vowed to keep his son’s name alive and ensure his talent is never forgotten. For the grieving father, the message is clear. His life will never be the same, but his love for Nathan remains unshaken.
