Zachary "Dylan" Smith

Zachary Dylan Smith, known to family and friends as "Dylan" and lovingly as "Boy Wonder," passed peacefully into the arms of God on the afternoon of Sunday, September 8th, 2024. He was born to J. Kyle and Lindy Smith on November 23, 1994, in Columbia, South Carolina.
Dylan was a proud graduate of A.C. Flora High School in 2013 and the University of South Carolina in 2019, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management. In high school, he was involved in the boys' JV golf team, mock trial, and YoungLife, and during college, he found brotherhood in the Sigma Nu fraternity.
From a young age, Dylan's talent and charisma shone brightly in the entertainment industry. He pursued acting and modeling with Millie Lewis of Columbia, J Pervis Talent and Osbrink Talent Agency in Los Angeles which led him to many opportunities. His impressive career included roles in 3: The Dale Earnhardt Story (2004), One Tree Hill (2006), Death Sentence (2007), Meet the Spartans (2008), and Rex (2008), along with appearances in various commercials and ad campaigns. He especially loved working with Jeff Gordon on a commercial.
While in college, Dylan discovered a passion for hospitality, working at the Hilton in downtown Columbia as part of his practicum. He had a warmth and love for meeting new people which even earned him the title of Team Member of the Month in April 2018. After his time in hospitality, Dylan followed in the footsteps of his father and late grandfather, Frank Headley, by pursuing a career in real estate appraisal. He began working as an apprentice under his father at JKS Appraisal Services, preparing to continue the family legacy.
Dylan shared a deep bond with his grandfather, Frank, who instilled in him a passion for firearms and safety at an early age. At just 14, Dylan became a NRA Apprentice Instructor, and by 21, he was a certified instructor and SC Concealed Weapons Permit Instructor. He dedicated many weekends to teaching gun safety and CWP classes at "The Farm," as well as attending conventions and gun shows with family members.
Dylan's passions were as diverse as his talents. He inherited a love for music from his father, J. Kyle, a drummer with The Root Doctors, and started his own band in middle school. His musical tastes ranged from classic rock and old country to what he fondly called "good rap music." He also cherished time spent on the golf course, especially with his uncles and cousins.
Dylan will be remembered for his infectious smile, magnetic personality, and unwavering kindness. He had a unique ability to light up any room, offering a joke, support, or one of his signature big hugs. He was fiercely protective of his loved ones and had a heart full of compassion.
Dylan is survived by his wife Jenna Safran Smith; his loving parents, J. Kyle and Lindy Smith; his sister, Skylar Smith; his grandmothers, Linda Headley and Brenda Darnell; aunts, uncles, many cousins, and his loyal dog, Cash, who was truly his best friend.
Boy Wonder, you were a blessing to all who knew you. Until we meet again in God's embrace, your light will continue to shine in our hearts.
A celebration of Dylan's life will take place on Sept 29th from 4PM-7PM at 6311 Kemberly St, Columbia, SC 29209.