Zachary "Zac" Seward Smith

Zachary “Zac” Seward Smith passed away on January 10, 2026. In his passing, the world lost a friend to all. Zac was born in Raleigh, North Carolina on December 14, 2004 to Elizabeth Townsend Smith and Jeremy Seward Smith. He had two younger brothers that he loved dearly, Matthew and Colin Smith.

Zac attended Brooks Elementary School, Oberlin Middle School and graduated from Sanderson High School in 2023. After high school, he worked as an electrical apprentice and then at Miracle Movers, both in Wilmington and Raleigh. In January, he began the HVAC program at Cape Fear Community College.

In high school, Zac played soccer and baseball. He also played soccer for NCFC on the Storm and Strikers teams where he formed close friends from a young age. The Smith house was a constant hangout for the boys and their friends. When they were not hosting intense wiffle ball and football games in the backyard, they were roaming the streets of North Hills, hanging at the pool, playing hoops and terrorizing employees at local establishments.

Zac was determined, hard-working and intelligent. He was passionate about working out, rarely missed a day at the gym, and encouraged his brothers to do likewise. He loved to cook and was creative in the kitchen. He was a fan of Japanese anime, owning a large figure collection.

It has been said that nicknames make a person feel less alone in the world. By that measure, Zac Zac, Zacalisous, Zac-A-Zoo, Z, Joe Bob, Zally Zac, and, most recently Zac Frost, was not alone. Zac had an unmatched wit and sense of humor and loved nothing more than to make others laugh. He could be mischievous and a bit of a risk taker, much to the delight of his friends and the chagrin of his parents. But most of all, Zac was known for his incredibly kind heart. He loved very hard and was loved by many. He fiercely loved his brothers and family. He was loyal to a fault. He had the most beautiful full-faced smile that brightened every room. So many were richer because of his presence in their lives. He will be missed forever.

Zac is survived by his parents, Elizabeth and Jeremy Smith, and brothers, Matt and Colin; grandparents Richard and Patricia Smith; maternal aunt and uncle Julie and Paul Gontarek; paternal aunt and uncle Stephanie and John DeRisi; cousins Carrie and Andrew Gontarek and Leo DeRisi; and many other friends and family. Zac was preceded in death by his grandparents Dalton and Carolyn Townsend, and cousin Vance DeRisi.

The Smith family has been overwhelmed by the love and support of friends and family. They are grateful for the loving words, shared memories, acts of service, encouragement and continued prayers. A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 17 at 2 pm at Midtown Community Church, 2011 Ridge Road in Raleigh. Afterward, all friends and family are invited to a reception at Ladyfingers Market, 3710 Exchange Glenwood Place. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina.