Lil Jon Lays Son Nathan to Rest After Tragic Death at 27
- Lil Jon has publicly mourned the loss of his son, Nathan Murray Smith, who was laid to rest on Wednesday, February 18th, two weeks after his death at...
- “On the first day of Ramadan yesterday, We laid my only son to rest,” Lil Jon wrote alongside a montage of photos spanning Nathan’s life.
- The hip-hop icon, whose real name is Jonathan Smith, also conveyed his profound personal loss.
Lil Jon has publicly mourned the loss of his son, Nathan Murray Smith, who was laid to rest on Wednesday, , two weeks after his death at the age of 27. The rapper shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, coinciding with the first day of Ramadan, asking for prayers for his son and family during this difficult time.
“On the first day of Ramadan yesterday, We laid my only son to rest,” Lil Jon wrote alongside a montage of photos spanning Nathan’s life. He continued, expressing his grief and faith: “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.” The Arabic phrase translates to “to Allah we belong and to Him we will return.”
The hip-hop icon, whose real name is Jonathan Smith, also conveyed his profound personal loss. “I love you, son. Life will never be the same without you. Allah, give me strength,” he wrote. He extended gratitude to those who had offered condolences, love, and prayers, promising to ensure his son’s talent and name would not be forgotten. “I will make sure the world knows your talent and never forgets your name,” he stated.
Nathan’s death followed a period of concern after he was reported missing by the Milton Police Department in Georgia earlier this month. The department confirmed the discovery of a body believed to be Nathan’s in a pond on . While the investigation is ongoing, authorities have stated there is currently no indication of foul play.
Lil Jon confirmed his son’s passing in a statement to Page Six on the same day the body was found. He described Nathan as “the kindest human being you would ever meet,” emphasizing his caring, thoughtful, and passionate nature. He also highlighted Nathan’s accomplishments as a music producer, artist, engineer, and graduate of New York University.
“He was immensely caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate and warmhearted — he loved his family and the friends in his life to the fullest,” the statement read. “He was an amazingly talented young man; a music producer, an artist and engineer, and a graduate of NYU.”
The rapper and his estranged wife, Nicole Smith, welcomed Nathan in . The couple separated in . Lil Jon has since expanded his family with girlfriend Jamila Sozahdah, welcoming daughter Nahara in .
Nathan, also known as DJ Young Slade, had been pursuing a career in music production. He was seen performing on ’s Celebrity Family Feud, showcasing his presence and passion. Prior to his death, he was described as a competitive bodybuilder, demonstrating a dedication to physical fitness.
The outpouring of support for Lil Jon has been significant, with numerous individuals expressing their condolences on social media. Comments ranged from simple expressions of love and sympathy to prayers for strength and guidance during this incredibly difficult time. One follower wrote, “Sending you so much love 🕊️,” while another offered, “We’re here for you brethren❤️.” A third commented, “This is too heartbreaking for words. May Allah guide you through this difficult journey. 🫶🏻🙏🏻.”
Lil Jon’s statement concluded with a thank you for the prayers and support received during the search for his son. The Milton Police Department has continued its investigation, seeking to understand the circumstances surrounding Nathan’s death. The loss of Nathan Murray Smith marks a deeply personal tragedy for Lil Jon and his family, and the hip-hop community is collectively mourning the loss of a promising young talent.