Hilo, Hawaii - Zachery "Zach" Winston passed away following a traffic accident on Hawaii's Big Island on May 5, 2026. He was 34 years old.

Like many people, Zach faced life challenges. But in Hawaii, he found purpose, friendship, peace, and a renewed sense of direction.

By all accounts, Hawaii brought out the best in Zach. Over the past year, he built a new chapter on the Big Island. He found meaningful work through Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms, WWOOFing for short. It is both employment and a way of life.

He developed close friendships in a community that supported and respected him. Friends and employers alike saw a man proud of what he was building and optimistic about his future. His Hawaii family embraced him, and in return Zach touched many hearts - as he always has. Of course, Zach's room-lighting smile always helped!

Part of Zach's ashes remain in Hawaii, where his parents and Hawaiian family celebrated his life with tradition and love. The remainder have returned home to Virginia, where a memorial gathering honoring his life will be held at 4PM on June 6, 2026, at Langley Christian Church, 175 Fox Hill Road, Hampton, VA 23669.

Zach lives on in the memories of the many people whose lives he touched, both in Hawaii and back home in Virginia.

Zach is survived by his loving mother, Lisa Paddleford; stepfather, James Paddleford; brother, Ryan Winston and his wife, Alexandra (Alex) Winston; stepsister, Madison Paddleford; niece, Charlotte (Charlie) Winston; and nephew, Hayes Winston. He also leaves behind many cherished bonus family members and dear friends whose lives were touched by his kindness, compassion, and generous spirit.

He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Beverly Winston, and grandfather, Edmund Winston.

The family would like to thank the many friends, coworkers, and supporters from both Hawaii and Virginia whose kindness, compassion, and generosity have meant so much during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, please pay it forward to the charity of your choice. Sounds like Zach, doesn't it?