Updated: September 13, 2026
Jeremiah Smith has become one of the most exciting young wide receivers in college football. The Ohio State Buckeyes star turned heads with his speed, hands, and maturity far beyond his years. Behind every standout athlete is a family story, and in Jeremiah’s case, that story centers on two dedicated parents: Lativia Newberry and Christopher Smith. Their steady guidance, work ethic, and support have played a major role in his rise from Miami Gardens, Florida, to national attention.
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Who Are Jeremiah Smith’s Parents?
Jeremiah’s mother is Lativia Newberry and his father is Christopher “Chris” Smith. Both are American and based in South Florida. Chris has Bahamian heritage that runs deep in the family, while Lativia brings her own athletic background. Together they raised a close-knit family that values discipline, presence, and hard work.
Here is a quick look at the key family details: Family Member Relation to Jeremiah Notable Background Lativia Newberry Mother Former middle and high school track athlete Christopher Smith Father Entrepreneur (moving & cleaning businesses) Christopher Older brother — Jade Older sister — Angelo Younger brother Rising football prospect (Class of 2027)
Chris also has two older children from a previous relationship, making Jeremiah part of a blended family of four siblings on his father’s side in total.
The Athletic and Entrepreneurial Roots of the Family
Lativia competed in track and field during her school years. That experience gave her a clear understanding of the dedication sports demand. She has largely stayed out of the public spotlight, preferring to support her children quietly.
Christopher Smith grew up in South Florida with strong Bahamian influences. One of his uncles, Danny Smith, was a national champion hurdler and Bahamian Olympian. Another relative had a notable boxing career. Chris himself built two businesses: a moving company and a commercial and residential cleaning operation. He has spoken about growing up without a consistent father figure and deliberately choosing to be present for his own children.
That combination of athletic awareness and entrepreneurial grind shaped the household culture Jeremiah experienced every day.
How His Parents Shaped Jeremiah’s Football Journey
Jeremiah’s talent showed early. When he was cut from a local youth team at age seven, his father was there to turn disappointment into motivation. Chris spent years working with his sons, emphasizing consistency over talk. Jeremiah has publicly credited his father for his work ethic, saying his dad is the reason he pushes so hard.
The parents also focused on keeping their sons grounded. They stressed maturity, staying away from negative influences, and treating football as part of a bigger life plan. Jeremiah has described his upbringing as the source of the composure that makes him look like a veteran even as a young player. The family often traveled to support him at Ohio State games, showing the same commitment he shows on the field.
Younger brother Angelo is following a similar path as a promising prospect, continuing the family’s athletic tradition.
Family Values That Stand Out
What makes the Smith household notable is the balance of toughness and care. Chris has talked about treating his children like his best friends while still holding them to high standards. The emphasis on being on time, putting in work without excuses, and staying connected to family roots created a stable foundation.
Jeremiah’s connection to NFL quarterback Geno Smith (a cousin through the extended family) adds another layer of football legacy, but both parents and Jeremiah himself point first to the daily lessons learned at home rather than distant relatives.
These values—presence, discipline, and quiet support—offer a strong example for any young athlete balancing sport and personal growth.
Conclusion
Lativia Newberry and Christopher Smith are the steady force behind Jeremiah Smith’s success. Their athletic understanding, entrepreneurial example, and consistent presence helped turn raw talent into the polished, hardworking wide receiver Ohio State fans now celebrate. In a sport full of hype, their story reminds us that strong parenting still matters most. For young athletes and students looking to build similar foundations of discipline and focus alongside academics, resources like ashutoshpreparatoryschool.com can provide valuable structure and guidance on the path to long-term achievement.
