Jeremy Smith, 23

Jeremy James Christopher Smith, 23, died on Jan. 1, 2014. Born Oct. 3, 1990, in South Kingstown, R.I., Jeremy moved soon thereafter to California and later to Rathdrum. Son of Sheri and James Smith, Jeremy was the embodiment of love, loyalty, and life.

He's the grandson of the late Larry James Payne and Diane Louise Payne.

From 2001 to 2009 at Lakeland School District, he exemplified energy and gentleness that hundreds of his friends grew to admire.

After school, Jeremy's life bloomed. He worked at establishments such as Center Partners, Idaho's Bureau of Land Management, and Little Caesars. It was during his stay with the BLM that he garnered his love for the outdoors. At the BLM, he worked with Parks and Recreation cleaning up camp sites.

An astute angler, he frequented Twin Lakes for most of his life. Jeremy hiked North Idaho's hills and studied its trails. He knew the ins and outs of nature, often bending someone's ear to tell them his favorite stories of his time in the wild.

A devout Catholic, Jeremy often carried a pendant of St. Christopher on his neck. Before he died, he was blessed with that Saint's namesake. His rosary and scapular are now with his body.

He is survived by his mother and father, his brother Jacob Smith, and extended family across the United States.

An open casket viewing will take place from 5-7 p.m., Jan. 10, 2014, at English Funeral Chapel in Coeur d'Alene. It will be followed by a rosary and presentations. On the following day, Jan. 11, 2014, at approximately 11 a.m., will be his funeral at St. Joan of Arc Roman Catholic Chapel.

Visit Jeremy’s online memorial at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.