Andrew David Smith

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Andrew David Smith, age 47, who left this world on November 9, 2024, at his home in Apex, North Carolina, after a courageous battle with brain stem glioma, which was diagnosed in March 2023. Through his strength and determination, Andrew made the most of his remaining time, cherishing every moment with his beloved family.

Born on October 26, 1977, in Salt Lake City, Utah, Andrew was the son of David DeVon and Sherry Mills Smith. He spent his youth living in Bennion, Utah. From a young age, he excelled in learning and enjoying childhood adventures. He was involved in scouting and learning to play the piano. After graduating from Taylorsville High School, Andrew served a mission in Quito, Ecuador for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a period that shaped his faith and service to others. He later earned a master’s degree in accounting from Brigham Young University, where he met the love of his life, Laura Kay Michaelson. The two were married and sealed for eternity in the Salt Lake City Temple on April 28, 2001. Together, they built a joyful and loving family with their children: Rachel, Audrey, and Ian.

Andrew’s professional career began with Ernst & Young in Houston, Texas in 2003. His work then took him abroad to Amsterdam for three years (2007-2010), where the family embraced the opportunity to travel throughout Europe. In 2015, Andrew transitioned to a private accounting role which eventually led to the family moving to North Carolina in 2020, where he continued to thrive professionally while remaining deeply committed to his family and community.

A man of deep faith and compassion, Andrew was known for his unwavering kindness and dedication to those around him. He was always quick to lend a helping hand, whether at work, in his church, or with family and friends. His ability to make others feel valued and loved was a hallmark of his character. As a husband and father, Andrew poured his heart into his family, often building projects with his children or attending their school and extracurricular events. He was their greatest supporter and they were his greatest joy.

Andrew’s infectious humor, generous spirit, and profound love for his family will continue to inspire all who knew him. His legacy of kindness and selflessness lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and community. He was always up for an adventure whether skydiving in Utah, white water rafting in New Zealand, or rope swinging in Costa Rica. Andrew loved to travel and explore new places. He also cherished simple Sunday afternoon walks with his family.

Andrew is survived by his wife, Laura; children, Rachel, Audrey, and Ian; parents, David and Sherry Smith; sisters, Julie King (Kelly), Amy Hoglund (Ken), and Natalie Mackay (Craig); brother, Nathan Smith (Erin); mother-in-law, Vicki Michaelson; brothers-in-law Paul Michaelson (Cristy), Jeff Michaelson (Amy), Ken Michaelson (Jenny), and Steven Michaelson (Rachel); as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. He is preceded in death by his father-in-law, Daryl Kay “Mike” Michaelson.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at Duke Hospital Medical Center and Hospice for their expertise and compassionate care during Andrew’s treatment. We are grateful for the many hands and hearts extended to us in prayers, acts of service, and meals. Our spirits became more refined and stronger.

Friends and family are invited to attend funeral services on Monday, November 18, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus of Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 6538 Johnson Pond Road, Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina. Viewings will be held on Sunday, November 17, 2024, from 5:00-7:00 pm at Apex Funeral Home, 550 W Williams Street, Apex, North Carolina, and Monday at the church before services from 10:00-10:45 am. Interment will follow at the Holly Springs Cemetery, 451 Earp Street, Holly Springs, North Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in honor of Andrew may be made to The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center (https://tischbraintumorcenter.duke.edu/)

Rest in peace, Andrew. You are now embraced by the loving arms of our Savior, Jesus Christ. We know you have important work to do. Your light will continue to shine brightly in our hearts forever.

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