Honoring Sean’s Journey to the Stars
As part of our Ashes to Space™ mission, we spotlight the lives and legacies of those who orbit with us—our Ashtronauts. Each tribute is submitted by loved ones who share a story, photos, and the spirit of someone worth remembering.
Ashtronaut™ is the designation given to individuals honored through Space Beyond’s Ashes to Space memorial spaceflight service.
Today, we honor: Ashtronaut Sean Masato Smith
From: Born in Tokyo, Japan. Raised in the US & Puerto Rico
Shared by: Pam and Steve Smith, Parents
These stories remind us why this mission matters—not just for space exploration, but for love, remembrance, and connection.
Son, Friend, Reader, Traveler, Cook, and One Who Pondered
Sean was placed in our arms on April 18th, at 13 days old.
From that day forward, Sean was our treasure, the light of our life.
He was a world traveler, both with us and on his own, visiting over 20 countries in Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
Sean was a superb cook and delighted eaters from fine dining venues to a more modest but award winning food truck.
He loved Japanese anime, Disney, and Star Wars, but even more than that, he loved his beloved family, friends, and fur babies.
Our friend Kelley Parton summed up Sean well.
“Sean had the biggest heart for all people and fur babies. He was the most sympathetic when it came to the vulnerable. He left a huge impact on all who knew him.”
He is survived by his parents- Steve and Pam Smith, his three grandparents- Kathleen Smith, and Tay and Ed Holly, his aunt and uncle- Colleen and Kevin Bredell, his cousins Brenna Foos and family, and Garrett Bredell, his extended family included a great aunt and uncle- Mickey and Roy Livermore and many second cousins who loved him dearly.
His time on this earth was much too short, but he left a legacy of goodness and kindness that will last. He spoke of going to space, and we’re so happy to fulfill this wish for him.
Slip the bonds of earth and revel in the stars. It’s what you dreamt of.
Love for eternity.
Mom and Dad
A Journey Beyond Earth
A portion of Sean’s ashes will be launched to space aboard our upcoming mission, where they will orbit Earth as part of a lasting celestial tribute.
Whether stargazing from home or tracking the spacecraft through the app, Sean’s loved ones will be able to follow the journey—knowing that their story is quite literally written in the stars.
Tribute Gallery – Ashtronaut Sean Masato Smith
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