Xander James Smith

With hearts shattered yet full of gratitude for the time we were given, we celebrate the beautiful life of our sweet boy, Xander James Smith. Though his journey on earth was far too short, he spent every day showing the world what true strength, courage, and faith looked like. Through every battle he faced, he remained a fighter with a smile/smirk that could light up any room. Xander passed peacefully in the loving arms of his mother on Monday, May 4, 2026, surrounded by endless love. While our hearts ache deeply, we find comfort knowing he is now whole, healed, and resting safely with Jesus. Free from pain and wrapped in perfect peace, he is running through Heaven with joy. He found happiness in life’s simplest treasures; playing with his puppy dogs, blowing bubbles into the sky, swinging without a care in the world, and being surrounded by the family who adored him. His hugs, strength, and sweet spirit touched everyone blessed enough to know him.

Xander James Smith is survived by his deeply devoted and loving parents, Nicholas James Clifton Smith and Gabrielle Rancatore Smith, who loved him beyond measure and treasured every moment of his precious life. Through every challenge, they surrounded Xander with unwavering strength, endless comfort, and unconditional love.

He is also survived by his grandparents, Iris (Rancatore) Williams, Melanie Burton Smith, James Clifton Smith, Michael Allison, Frank Rancatore III, and Liz Hurdle Rancatore.

He is further survived by his great-grandparents, Frances Williams Bass, Veronica Burton, Doris Smith, Esther Allison, and Ronald Allison; his aunts, Alexandra Rancatore, Katelyn Smith, Rachel Goodale, and Gabrielle Smith; his uncles, Frank Rancatore IV, Aaron Cox, and Robby Goodale; his Godparents, Rustin Rosevear and Michelle Rosevear; his best friend, Reagan Rosevear; along with many beloved great-aunts, great-uncles, cousins, and extended family members who cherished him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his great-grandparents, Walter Bernard Williams Jr., Frank Rancatore Jr., Agnes Rancatore, Alvin George Burton, and Richard Clifton Smith.

The family would like to express their deepest appreciation to the incredible medical teams at Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital and Texas Children’s Hospital. The doctors, nurses, specialists, and staff poured so much love, care, and compassion into Xander throughout his journey. They embraced his family as their own, offering comfort and unwavering kindness during the hardest moments. Their dedication and love will never be forgotten. The family would also like to extend their deepest gratitude to the non-profit organization, Sky High for Kids, for the support, generosity, and care they have shown throughout this journey.

Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation starting at 9:00 am until 12:00 pm, service to start at 12:00 pm on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at Amite Baptist Church, 7100 Amite Church Rd., Denham Springs, Louisiana, 70706 conducted by Bro. Johnny Morgan with burial following at Evergreen Memorial Park, 1710 S. Range Avenue, Denham Springs, Louisiana, 70726.

Although we will miss him every single day, we hold tightly (tight tight) to the love he gave so freely and the memories that will forever live in our hearts. Xander was deeply loved, endlessly cherished, and will never be forgotten.