Xavier Michael Smith

Xavier Michael Smith, 17, of Newark, DE, passed away suddenly and tragically on Sunday, December 7th. He was born on December 28, 2007, in Newark, the beloved son of Brian E. and Jenine E. Smith. Xavier, a senior in high school, was an extraordinary young man with an old soul and a heart of service. An electrical apprentice, and a whiz with audio-visual systems at the hall, he loved working with his hands and had many LDC projects to his credit. He had a brilliant mind, he found joy in books, treasured his stuffed animals, and held a genuine love for all animals, especially dogs. As a regular Auxiliary Pioneer for about a year, his faith was a cornerstone of his life. But Xavier will be remembered most for the way he loved people. He was famous for his incredible, all-encompassing hugs—a warm-hearted, fun, and ever-willing helper. Known affectionately as “the congregation baby,” he was a friend to all ages, a cherished son to the entire Iron Hill congregation, and nearly adopted by the White Clay congregation. His warmth created a family far beyond blood. Xavier is survived by his parents, Brian E. and Jenine Smith; his brother, Ean R. Lewis; nephews, Easton R. Lewis and Emari R. Lewis, his “Grandmama” Vernette Smith; his “Big Poppa” Joseph Jay Reid (Sharon); uncles Lester E. (Malina)Smith, Jr., Christopher E. (Sylvia)Smith, and Joseph Cabrera; aunts Lynette Smith, Felicia Reid, Christine Sanders; and a host of cousins and special aunts and uncles who loved him as their own, changed his diapers, gave him his first haircut, bounded his wounds, kissed his forehead and his baby feet (you know who you are), those who would feed him, and supply him with his favorite mints. They cared for him from his earliest days, and whose guidance he valued deeply. He is also survived by his immense and grieving Iron Hill Family. Along with a host of many close friends. The family wishes to express that the outpouring of love and support is the only thing sustaining them through this shared loss. As the congregation’s son, grandson, nephew, and friend, they ask all who loved him: “May we keep holding each other up, keeping our integrity, so the Iron Hill Family can welcome him back in God’s New World.” A service for Xavier will be held December 20, 2025 at 4 p.m., at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 3011 N Heald St. Wilmington DE. Zoom information: Meeting ID: 853 6834 6971 Passcode: 12202025 In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you honor Xavier’s memory by offering a heartfelt hug to someone who needs it, lending a helping hand, or through acts of kindness that reflect his generous spirit. For directions or to send an online condolence, visit www.stranofeeley.com

Xavier Michael Smith

December 28, 2007 - December 7, 2025

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