Funny, kind,
compassionate, loving father.
Zach grew up with his mother, Maria Byran Yake, and his three brothers in Accokeek, Maryland. When he turned five,the family moved to Welcome, Maryland, the city that would become Zach’s lifelong home. He attended Grace Baptist Daycare, Mt. Hope Nanjemoy Elementary, General Smallwood Middle School, and Henry E. Lackey High School. After graduating, Zach completed two semesters at the College of Southern Maryland, where he studied criminal justice.Zach’s family remembers him always surrounded by many friends and admirers. “Zach could really read people,” said his mom, Maria. “He was gifted like that.” He would call, text, or visit his mother everyday, always making time to put his family first. He loved his five-year-old son dearly and was working towards gaining shared custody of him when he passed away. Zach was an avid motorcyclist and ATV rider, and in addition to riding them, he loved to learn how to work and fix them. He was good with his hands and was certified in small engine repair.
He also thrived at sports. He excelled at baseball and played through his teenage years.
Zach’s intelligence was always matched by his humor, and he could make anyone laugh. “Zach was so smart and super funny,” his mom said. “He would amaze me with his wit.”
Zachary’s mother, Maria Byran Yake, provided information for this profile.
December 27, 1991–April 5, 2019
Age 27
Zachary lived with addiction for 6 years.
