Many people know the Smollett name, especially stars like Jussie Smollett and Jurnee Smollett. But not everyone knows the story of the man who helped guide them — Joel Smollett. He was not a celebrity, but he played a very big role in the lives of his children.
Joel Smollett was a quiet and loving father. He didn’t appear on TV or in movies, but his work behind the scenes helped shape a family full of talent. His life story is special and full of lessons about love, hard work, and raising children with strong values.
In this article, we’ll learn about Joel Smollett’s early life, where he came from, his marriage, and how he raised six amazing children. His story is one of strength, kindness, and family love that still inspires people today.
Who was Joel Smollett?
Joel Smollett was the father of six children — all of whom grew up to be actors, producers, or entertainers. Even though he stayed out of the spotlight, his children often say he was the heart of the family. He helped guide them, support them, and protect them every step of the way.
He was often called the patriarch of the Smollett family, which means he was the main figure or leader at home. Joel was proud of his children and taught them to believe in themselves. He showed them how to be strong, honest, and proud of who they are.
Joel Smollett believed in family, hard work, and standing up for what’s right. He lived a simple life, but his role was not small. He was a quiet hero — a man who worked hard to make sure his kids had every chance to follow their dreams.
Joel Smollett’s Early Life
Joel Smollett was born on October 8, 1956, in Russia. As a child, he also lived in Poland for some years. His early life was not always easy, but it helped shape the strong man he became later on.
He came from a Jewish family and was raised in the Jewish faith. He learned the importance of culture, respect, and family traditions from a young age. These values stayed with him all his life and helped him raise his own children with love and strength.
Joel’s early years were full of learning, family memories, and change. Moving between places like Russia and Poland gave him a wide view of the world. He learned how to face challenges with patience and how to stay strong in difficult times.
Meet Joel Smollett’s Parents
Joel’s father was Peter Smollett, who was a Polish Jew. His mother was Molly Hirschenson, who came from Russia. Together, they raised Joel in a home that respected both culture and faith.
Peter and Molly passed down many values to Joel — like honesty, loyalty, and standing up for what you believe in. They also taught him the importance of working hard and caring for family. These lessons helped Joel become a kind and thoughtful parent.
Joel also had one sibling, but their name and life story are not known publicly. Joel’s family roots go back to Eastern Europe, and he kept his connection to his heritage even after moving to the United States. His grandparents were David Smollett and Dawley Levy.
Joel Smollett’s Moving to America
As a teenager, Joel and his family moved to the United States. It was a big change, but it gave them a new chance at life. Joel came to America with hope and a strong desire to build a better future.
After arriving in the U.S., Joel eventually became an American citizen. He worked hard to adjust to a new country, a new language, and a new way of life. But he never forgot his roots or the values he learned as a child.
His journey from Russia and Poland to America shaped who he was. It helped him understand how to handle change, stay strong, and always keep family first. These life lessons later helped him raise his own children in a very loving way.
Joel Smollett’s Career Life
Joel Smollett worked as a cable splicer in the United States. This was a hard and physical job, but it helped him earn money to take care of his family. He didn’t have an easy job, but he always worked with pride and dedication.
Along with his work, Joel was also a civil rights supporter. He believed in fairness and equal rights for everyone. He spent time in the San Francisco Bay Area, where he joined others who wanted to make the world a better place.
Joel’s life was not about fame or attention. It was about doing what was right, working hard, and standing by his family. His mix of hard work and kindness made him a strong example for his kids.
How Joel Met Janet
While working on civil rights causes in the Bay Area, Joel met a young and passionate woman named Janet Smollett. Like Joel, she also cared deeply about helping others and fighting for equal rights.
They connected right away — not just because of shared goals, but because of shared hearts. Both of them believed in fairness, education, and building a strong family. Their love story started with friendship and shared dreams.
Janet came from New Orleans and had a Black American background. Together, she and Joel represented two cultures, two voices, and one powerful bond. Their connection would grow into a lasting marriage and a beautiful family.
Joel’s Marriage to Janet
After meeting during civil rights work, Joel Smollett and Janet decided to build a life together. They married in their twenties. The exact wedding date is not public, but their bond was strong and full of trust, respect, and shared values.
Janet Smollett was born on November 27, 1952. She was about four years older than Joel Smollett. She came from New Orleans and had strong roots in community work. Together, they created a home where love, learning, and respect mattered most.
Their marriage was not about fame or attention. It was about raising children the right way. Joel Smollett and Janet worked as a team. They focused on family time, culture, and teaching their kids to be proud of who they are.
Meet Their Six Children
Joel Smollett and Janet raised six children, four sons and two daughters. All of them grew up together in a close home. From a young age, they were encouraged to speak, learn, and explore creative ideas in a safe space.
The oldest child is Jojo Smollett, born in 1977. Then came Jazz Smollett in 1980. Jussie Smollett was born in 1982, followed by Jurnee Smollett in 1986. Jake Smollett arrived in 1989, and Jocqui Smollett in 1993.
All six children worked in acting or entertainment at some point. Some stayed in movies and TV. Others moved into food, tech, or business. Joel Smollett supported each child’s path and never forced one single direction on them.
Joel Smollett’s Final Years
In his later years, Joel Smollett faced serious health problems. He was battling cancer, though the family never shared the exact type. During this time, he stayed mostly private and focused on spending time with loved ones.
His children stayed close to him during his illness. They helped care for him and made sure he felt supported. Joel Smollett remained calm and strong, even during difficult moments, showing the same strength he had shown all his life.
Joel Smollett passed away on January 7, 2015, at the age of 58. His passing was deeply felt by his family. His funeral included kind words and loving tributes from his children, who honored the man who shaped their lives.
Final Thoughts
The story of Joel Smollett is not loud or flashy, but it is powerful. He lived a simple life, worked hard, and believed deeply in family, fairness, and love. His impact came from what he taught at home, not from fame.
Joel Smollett showed that success does not always start on a stage or screen. Sometimes, it starts at the dinner table, in honest talks, and in daily support. His children carry those lessons into their own lives and careers.
Today, Joel Smollett is remembered as a strong father and a quiet guide. His life reminds us that behind many famous names, there is often a steady parent who helped build everything with patience, care, and heart.
(FAQs)
How old was Joel Smollett when he died?
Joel Smollett was 58 years old when he passed away on January 7, 2015.
What was the cause of death?
Joel Smollett died after battling cancer. The exact type of cancer was not shared by the family.
Where was Joel Smollett born?
He was born on October 8, 1956, in Russia, and also lived in Poland before moving to the U.S.
Where did Joel Smollett live in the United States?
He lived in the San Francisco Bay Area, California, where he worked and raised his family.
Who are Joel Smollett’s children?
Joel had six children: Jojo, Jazz, Jussie, Jurnee, Jake, and Jocqui Smollett — all of whom worked in entertainment.
Was Joel Smollett married?
Yes, he was married to Janet Smollett. They met during civil rights work and stayed married until his death.
