Ceejay Ronald Smith, 13, of Springville, died tragically December 5, 2017, by taking his own life when he gave up his fight against bullying.

Born February 1, 2004, in Tunkhannock, PA, Ceejay brought joy to all of those who loved him. He spent his days playing and learning about the world around him, but he was far from a typical child. His fierce curiosity for the world around him was matched only by his incredible kindness, especially for other children. He was the protector in a group. He was also the comforter, always willing to extend a hand or a smile. Ceejay could light up a room with his smile, which started slow and then surprised you when it spread wide across his face. As he grew, that curiosity and kindness grew with him. He developed a passion for music, played the trumpet, and could sing with a voice that snuck up on you like his smile. He was a polite and helpful eighth grader at Elk Lake, and Ceejay shared his love freely, reaching out to others with a kind word or gesture. He was generous, often giving away his own possessions to make another child happy. He always accepted those who wronged him back into his life with grace and forgiveness. In death, he is still sharing kindness and helping others through the donation of his organs. Let us mourn the tragic loss of this beautiful child by learning more about his life and then live according to his example. "Only love can build us a bridge of light."

Ceejay is survived by his parents, Rebecca (Fidler) and Cory Smith of Springville; his grandparents,Mary (Allen) and Ronald Smith of Meshoppen, Patricia (Fidler) Beebe and Pete Gillingham of Johnson City; his sisters, Brittany (Adams) Polney and her husband, James, Ariona and Miralise Smith of Springville, and his brother, Austin Adams of Springville; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family.

The family will be hosting a celebration of life for Ceejay on Sunday, December 17, 2017 from 12:00 - 4:00 p.m. at the Springville Volunteer Fire Company, 3866 SR 29, Springville, PA 18844. All are welcome to attend and learn more about the #BEAHERO movement, inspired by this child who fought hatred with love.

Arrangements were entrusted with Sheldon Funeral Homes, Box 66 Main St., Meshoppen, PA. Online condolences may be made at www.sheldonfuneralhomes.com.

#BEAHERO