Jacob Smith, 31, passed away on January 30, 2026, in Ocala, Florida, after a hard and private battle with depression and mental health challenges. He was born on December 16, 1994, in Arkansas to his mother, Mary Cratty. Jacob lived a life defined by love, service, and deep devotion to the people he called family, both by birth and by choice.

Jacob lived a lot of life in his 31 years. He served in the armed forces, earned his EMT certification, completed welding school, and poured his energy into caring for others in every role he held. Many knew him through his time at Waffle House, where he spent countless hours serving people with warmth, humor, and a genuine interest in their lives. No matter where he was or what he was doing, Jacob found ways to take care of people.

With his family, Jacob was goofy, playful, and stubborn in the way only someone who loves deeply can be. He was never shy about expressing his love, and if there was anything he could do, especially for his little sister Kaytee, he was quick to step in and help. He adored being an uncle and never missed a chance to spoil on his precious niece Everly. Protecting, providing, and showing up for others came naturally to him.

Jacob loved video games and never met a game he couldn’t beat, but his greatest passion was people. He built strong, lasting relationships everywhere he went, gathering friends who quickly became family. His loyalty was fierce, his heart was generous, and he would do anything for those he loved. He carried an easy laugh for everyone he met, something that reminded them they belonged.

Jacob is survived by his mother, Mary Cratty; his sisters, Jamie Powell and Kaytee Smith; brother-in-law Jeremy Powell; his beloved niece, Everly Powell; aunts Nina Hayes, Richelle McWilliams, Melissa Surles, and Margo Baker; uncles Steve Hayes, David Brainard, and Phil Pegoraro; and many cousins who loved him. He is also deeply mourned and survived by members of his chosen family in Florida, Ed Soldan and family as well as Mia Pierce.

He was preceded in death by his Gammy Mary Brainard, aunts Catherine Pegoraro and Linda Hayes, and uncle Larry Hayes.

Jacob’s life was not defined by how it ended, but by how deeply he loved and how fully he gave of himself. Though he ultimately lost his battle with depression, his story carries an important message he would want others to hear: help exists, hope is real, and no one has to fight alone.

If you or someone you love is struggling, support is available. In the United States, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can be reached by calling or texting 988, offering free, confidential support 24 hours a day.

Jacob mattered. He was loved fiercely, and he will be missed beyond words.

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