Zayne Smith

Zoe Leona Smith, known as Zayne Lee Smith, age 20, passed away on June 14, 2025. Born an intensely vibrant and energetic child, Zayne always brought realness and truth to everyone around him. He didn’t care about frivolous things and didn’t follow societal norms, instead choosing to be his true self.

Zayne was born April 27, 2005, to Mary Schiller and Scott Smith. He was a 2023 Graduate of Webster Groves High School.

Zayne was extremely talented, excelled in the arts, showcasing his talents in acting, costume design, makeup artistry, and dance. He was an early member of a hip hop competition group and later found his passion in theatre and cosplay, participating in numerous plays and forming lasting friendships within the cosplay community. Zayne attended a year at the theatre conservatory at Webster University, where he further honed his craft.

Zayne was the founder of Sugar Stars, an idol dance group that traveled and performed at conventions throughout the Midwest, sharing his love for dance and cosplay with others. Anyone who knew him would attest to his hilarious twist on things. He also had a deep affection for animals, especially his beloved dog, Maple, and pet rats—Milo, Toby, and Shredder.

Zayne is survived by his loving parents, Mary Schiller and Scott Smith; his siblings, Abigail Smith and Maximus Schiller; his grandmothers, Gail McDonough, Kathy Smith, and Debra Gilliland; as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins who cherished him deeply.

He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Donald Smith, Robert Gilliland, and Michael McDonough.

Zayne was able to save six lives through organ donation. Because of him, six people now have a new lease on life and are able to continue Zayne’s story.

A celebration of Zayne's life will be held on June 29 at the Shrewsbury Community Center. Service at 12pm, lunch will be served following service. Open house to follow until 4 pm.

In memory of Zayne, let us remember him how he would like to be remembered… as a balling bro.