Xavier Nathaniel Gantz

OZARK…Xavier Nathaniel Gantz, a resident of Ozark, near Skipperville, passed away Sunday morning, August 9, 2026, at his home. He was 16.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Thursday, August 13, 2026, in the Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Jason Miller, Pastor Daniel Jones, and Pastor David Houston officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:00 until 11:00 A.M. Thursday at the funeral home. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements.

Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be made to, Harvest Christian School, 1694 Deese Road, Ozark, Alabama 36360.

Xavier was born on July 5, 2010, in Rockford, Illinois. In 2015, he moved with his family to Ozark, Alabama, where he quickly made it home and built many friendships and lasting memories. He was currently a Junior at Harvest Christian School in Ozark, where he was known by classmates, teachers, and friends for his kind heart, respectful nature, and friendly personality.

Xavier had a deep love for adventure and the outdoors. One of his greatest passions was flying, and he was proudly working toward obtaining his private pilot’s license. The excitement of being in the air brought him tremendous joy, and he looked forward to all the opportunities that flying would bring. In addition to aviation, Xavier enjoyed riding dirt bikes, fishing, hunting, playing video games with friends, and spending time around cars. Whether he was outdoors exploring, talking about airplanes and vehicles, or simply enjoying time with family and friends, he lived life with enthusiasm and a genuine appreciation for the things he loved.

More than anything, Xavier will be remembered for the person he was. He had a wonderful personality that naturally drew people to him. He was kind to everyone he met, respectful to those around him, and always willing to lend a helping hand. His smile could brighten a room, and his caring and thoughtful nature left a lasting impression on family members, friends, classmates, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. He had a way of making people feel welcome and valued, and the memories he created with those he loved will be treasured forever.

Though his time here was far too short, Xavier's life was filled with love, laughter, and meaningful moments. His spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, and his memory will forever be a source of comfort, inspiration, and cherished remembrance.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Martin and Deborah Gantz.

Surviving relatives include his mother, Sabrina Rafferty Gantz, Ozark; father, Christopher Gantz (Virginia), Chancellor; maternal grandparents, Peggy and Daniel Heavin, Rockford, Illinois; paternal grandmother, Denise Gantz, Livonia, Michigan; siblings, Charlotte Gantz, Carson Gantz, and Montana Mock; aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Serving as honorary pallbearers will be the members of the Class of 2028 at Harvest Christian School and members of the Harvest Christian School Basketball Team.