Northborough – Zachary Kenneth Sydney passed away on August 29, 2016 at Children's Hospital in Boston after complications from pneumonia. He was 14 years old. He leaves his parents, Terrence and Lisa (Houston) Sydney of Northborough; his sister, Vanessa Davidson of RI; his paternal grandmother, Greta Sydney of Sharon; his maternal grandparents, Russell and Pauline Houston of Newton; also surviving are aunts, uncles and cousins. Born in Boston, Zach's only home for 14 years was Northborough. He was about to begin his freshman year at Algonquin Regional High School. Zachary was fascinated by Japanese animation. He played the drums in the Melican Middle School Band and loved dancing. Zach was an active participant in Special Olympics. He was characterized as "the life of the party" and made everyone smile. Much like the Pied Piper, everyone gravitated towards him. Zach's zest of life will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have met him.

Calling hours will be held Tuesday, September 6, 2016 from 3-7 p.m. in Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main St. Northborough. Zach's funeral will take place on Wednesday, September 7th at 10 a.m. in Rice Memorial Baptist Church, 85 Lincoln St. Northborough. (Please go directly to church.) Burial will follow in Howard St. Cemetery. To honor Zach's love of life and color, please consider wearing vibrant colored clothing to all services. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Special Olympics of Massachusetts Inc., 512 Forest St. Marlborough, MA 01752.