Nathaniel "Nate" Jay Cach-Smith

Nathaniel “Nate” Jay Cach-Smith, 18, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away on Monday, February 16, 2026, at Mercy Medical Center in Cedar Rapids. Visitation: 3 – 6 p.m. Sunday, February 22, 2026, at Murdoch-Linwood Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Cedar Rapids. Private family services will be held.

Nate was born on November 16, 2007, in Cedar Rapids, the son of Ashley (Cach) Williams. He graduated from Linn-Mar High School and worked at Collins Aerospace. Nate loved basketball from the time he was little, always saying, “just one more shot” long after everyone was ready to go inside. In true Nate fashion, he took one more shot at making a difference in giving the ultimate assist through organ donation. His big heart and fighting spirit will continue to play on in others.

As a big brother, Nate shared a close and meaningful bond with his sister, Layliana, and carried a quiet promise to always have her back. Above all else, Nate was most proud of being a father. His daughter, Na’Raiya, was his whole world – his twin, his light and the reason behind his biggest smiles. The bond they shared was deep, beautiful and undeniable.

Survivors include his daughter, Na’Raiya Dior Cach and her mother, Nazarae Chesney; sister, Layliana Russell; mother, Ashley Williams (Devonte Flynn); grandparents, John and Julie Cach of Cedar Rapids; grandmother, Kris Brody of Hiawatha, Iowa; great-grandmother, June Cach of Cedar Rapids; aunts and uncles, Lindsey (Mark) Stanley of Delhi, Iowa, Joe (Kallie) Cach of Central City, Iowa, and Maggie (Gage) Neal of Springville, Iowa; and cousins, Easton, Jesse, and Jolene.

Nate was preceded in death by his great-grandparents, Robert and Dori Harris, John L. Cach, and John and Lynda Darm.

“Just one more shot. We love you, Nater.”

Memorials may be directed to the family.