Derek Smith Obituary, Death – Hanover Man Dies Suddenly at 28

Derek Andrew Smith, 28, of Hanover, Pennsylvania, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on September 27, 2026, leaving his family, friends and community mourning the loss of a young man remembered for his warmth, loyalty and ability to bring joy to those around him.

Derek was born in York, Pennsylvania, on June 4, 1998, to Joanie L. Kebil-Smith and the late Andrew G. Smith, who died in 2022.

Remembering Derek Andrew Smith

Derek graduated from Delone Catholic High School with the Class of 2017 before earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration from West Virginia University in 2021.

He worked as a customer service and route analyst for Campbell Snacks in Hanover, a job he enjoyed along with the people he worked alongside.

Away from work, Derek had a passion for golf and was known not only for enjoying the sport but for being a talented golfer. He treasured time on the course with friends and enjoyed family vacations and gatherings.

Those who knew Derek remembered his ability to light up a room. He was described as a loyal and dependable friend who valued the relationships he built throughout his life.

His interests extended to poker, scratch-off lottery tickets, cooking and staying active at the YMCA in Hanover. He was also eagerly anticipating becoming an uncle, with his sister Ali and her husband Thomas expecting “Baby Vizzard” in early October.

Derek’s family said he left a lasting impact on everyone he encountered, and his absence will be deeply felt by those who loved him.

Family and Loved Ones

Derek is survived by his mother, Joanie; his sister, Ali M. Vizzard and her husband Thomas; paternal grandparents Thomas and Joyce Smith and Prudence Reichart; along with numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Andrew G. Smith; maternal grandparents Joseph and Patricia Kebil; and paternal grandfather Frank Reichart.

Memorial Service

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at noon on Monday, October 5, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 5125 Grandview Road, Hanover, Pennsylvania.

The family will receive relatives and friends at the church from 10 a.m. until noon before the Mass. Rev. Michael W. Rothan will serve as celebrant. Interment will be private.

Honorary pallbearers will be Zack Hart, Ryan Hart, Nate Hart, Zack Schussler, Nathan West, Wade Neiderer, Jacob Reck, Seth Leonard and Nathan Lawyer.

Organ Donation and Memorial Contributions

In keeping with Derek’s spirit of selflessness, he was an organ donor. His donation is expected to help between 50 and 70 people, allowing his legacy to continue through the lives of others.

The Smith family has requested that flowers be omitted. Those wishing to make a memorial contribution may donate to Gift of Life’s Howie’s House in Philadelphia or to Delone Catholic High School through its Office of Advancement.

Murphy-Beck Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Inc. of McSherrystown is handling the arrangements.