NORTH CAROLINA, Oct. 25 – Zachary Kurt “Z” Grier, 19, of Lexington, North Carolina, died unexpectedly in his sleep on Sunday morning, October 23, 2011. He was born in Lexington, NC on April 30, 1992.

As a young boy, Z was high energy and always up for the next challenge. He was frequently seen riding a four-wheeler on his grandparents' farm, fishing in the pond, or playing with dogs twice his size.

Z attended Davidson Academy in Lexington, NC, graduated from Westchester Country Day School in High Point, NC, and was attending Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia as a sophomore. He was an Eagle Scout, brother of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, and active in the Acts Alive youth group, recently going on a mission trip to the Dominican Republic. The centerpiece of Z's life was spending time with his loved ones. Whether it be snowboarding in the North Carolina mountains, hanging out at Ocean Isle Beach, or enjoying concerts, he could be found surrounded by his friends and family. His easy going, affable demeanor and personality endeared Z to everyone he met and encountered. His caring nature and sense of humor were always present and evident in his interactions. At 6'3, Z was a gentle giant who was especially great with all of his younger cousins.

Z is survived by his mother, Michele Langford; his father, Niels Grier; younger sister, Kathryn Grier; grandparents, Sarah Andrews and Harry and Christa-Maria Grier; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A celebration of Z's life will be held at First Presbyterian Church in Lexington, NC, at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, October 26. The family will receive friends following the service.

A service will also be held at College Presbyterian Church on the Hampden-Sydney College campus at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 27.

Donations may be made to the Acts Alive or Boy Scout Troop #205 fund, both sponsored by First Presbyterian Church, Westchester Country Day School, or Hampden-Sydney College.

Davidson Funeral Home, North Carolina, is in charge of arrangements and online condolences may be made at www.davidsonfuneralhome.net