It is impossible to capture Rylan’s bright and unique presence in words; Rylan was his own person. He refused to follow traditional paths of life and instead forged his own. He was a master antagonist and instigator, a jokester who would always tell the right jokes to make anyone laugh and whose persistent taunting glued his family together. His playfulness was contagious and permeated every interaction he had. Rylan loved his entire family and made them feel special with his presence even in the darkest and saddest days.

Rylan used his superior intelligence, creativity, and ability to read a room to absolutely dominate during poker (or lose big, which he also enjoyed). He never cared about winning or crossing a finish line but instead wanted to enjoy each step and obstacle together with his loved ones. Always the first to try something new while urging others to follow him, Rylan had a talent for bringing people together around new experiences and inside jokes.

Some of Rylan’s passions included flying drones, computer science, online gambling, playing games with his family, digging deals at Bin Time, the Outlet Shoppe, and meteorology. Rylan was a thrill-seeker with an intense fascination for extreme weather and a talent for competitive games. Rylan wanted to become a storm-chaser, which he no doubt would have been the bravest. He enjoyed his work at Food Lion because he was able to work alongside his brothers Eric, Landen, and Nick. 

He was the best son and brother anyone could have asked for, and everyone who knew him is grateful for that privilege. Although Rylan is no longer here physically, he is, and forever will be, here with us spiritually and in our thoughts.

He is survived by his parents, Eric Shawn and Danielle Strain Smith, brothers, Eric Shawn Smith, Jr. ( Adriana Uldrick), Landen Smith, Nicholas Smith and Zachary Smith, sister, Evie Smith; grandparents, Sherri Smith, Anastasia and Daniel Strain; uncle, Dan Strain; and was loved by his cousins and aunt. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Don Obhoff.

Messages of condolence may be made to the family at www.ParkerWhitePruitt.com