Bradley David Smith
August 15, 1987 - September 30, 2020
Bradley David Smith
Age 33, of Economy Borough, passed away at home suddenly, after a long health struggle
with his parents at his side. Brad was born on August 15, 1987 and greeted the world 5 weeks early and has had that ‘surprise, here I am’ personality his whole life. Brad was a very compassionate man and always saw the good in everyone. He had a great sense of humor and a belly laugh that would bring joy to all of those who heard it. As a child, his humor puzzled other children, but made adults laugh out loud.
Brad was an Eagle Scout and achieved this rank with determination and struggle. He loved to camp, hike, canoe and fish. As his abilities declined, he continued to participate, progressing from walker to wheelchair to power chair. Even as an adult he was active in the troop and went to summer camp using his power wheelchair and adult tricycle to get around camp. As an adult he was always up for any adventure in the outdoors and would travel around in his power wheelchair through any terrain. He loved to sit and sing around the campfire, just relax and enjoy the outdoors and sleep under the stars. He loved our family and Scout adventures in Kipawa, Quebec and would have visited more if possible.
Brad loved to read and was also a prolific story writer. He included friends, family and ex-teachers as characters both good and bad. His alter ego had a souped-up wheelchair, who saved the day, and always got the girl.
He loved all kinds of music in all kinds of genre from 70’s Rock to Country, Gospel, Contemporary and Pop. With his incredible memory he remembered the lyrics to hundreds of songs – word for word. He could also remember the names of anyone he met as well as when he met them and what they were doing when they met, even years later.
Brad loved all creatures four legged. He volunteered for many years at Animal Friends as a dog walker. He loved the neighborhood dogs that he would visit on our walks.
Brad enjoyed participating on the Adult Miracle League team in Cranberry Township, playing on many teams with the same group of young adults for 10 years.
Through all of Brad’s trials, he has approached life with dignity, grace and acceptance. He was active in his Catholic faith and attended St. Ferdinand as a lifetime member. We find comfort in knowing that Brad is enjoying his “forever home” beside Jesus and loved ones.
Brad was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Robert and Roberta Smith, and his maternal grandfather Robley (Rip) Campbell.
He is survived by his parents, Jeffrey and Jeannie (Campbell) Smith of Economy Borough, his sister Milena Smith of Norfolk, Virginia and his maternal grandmother, Eleanora Campbell of Economy Borough. He also leaves behind many loving aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
Services and burial are private, but we look forward to having a life celebration at a later date. Donations can be made in his name to Boy Scout Troop 414 of Economy Borough c/o Rehoboth Lutheran Church, 2800 Conway Wallrose Road, Baden, PA 15005-2306.
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My deepest condolences for your loss. Take solace knowing he is with the angels making them laugh.
We are so very sorry to hear of your loss.
Milena and family, I’m saddened to hear of the sudden loss of your brother and son. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Jeannie, so sorry to hear about your Son. Thoughts and prayers are with your family.
I remember Brad from when Milena and I were friends in high school. He was always such a sweet kid with a loving heart. My deepest condolences.
Met this amazing individual when I became a member of troop 414. He was a great person inside and out always gave 110% no matter what. I learned a lot from this man. R.I.P. you will be missed brother.
Brad was a very nice student at Ambridge High School that I had the pleasure of having in my class.
Brad and I met at the Woodlands. Anyone and everyone that knew Brad knew how big his heart was. We shared a crazy bond that most who knew us knew what it was. He was so outgoing and a real friend to everyone. I think the first time I ever listened to Gospel music was with Brad at camp. After many many repeated attempts to just get me to listen for a second. I wish I had been a better friend. I wish I had kept in contact. 12 years has gone by since we last saw or talked to each other. I often thought of you bud and I had hoped you were doing well in life. I know you’re not alone up there. Paul Anderson you keep Brad smiling and laughing until we make it to Heaven and are reunited. You’ll forever be in my heart Brad. Rest in Peace. My thoughts and prayers are with your loved ones during this difficult time ❤
Jeff and Jeannie,
I am so very sorry for your loss. May peace be with you at this very difficult time. Thinking of you. Lisa Mislan
Jeff and Jeannie and family, it is with a very heavy heart today that we received the news of Brad’s passing. Brad was not only a member of the Miracle League team on which I am a Buddy but he also was friends with our son, Patrick, at St. Ferdinand’s. Patrick has always spoken of Brad so highly and always recalled him in the highest. May God bless you and comfort you always. He is, indeed, in the care of heaven’s angels now. God’s peace and love to you.
I have so many wonderful memories Brad! Starting when I was a kid and in his sister’s Girl Scout troop. He was always there making us laugh. I worked with Brad many years later and he was always a good time. Telling stories, singing, helping me plan trips he wanted to go on. He will definitely be missed by many. I am so sorry for the smith’s loss, sending my condolences.
My deepest condolences to the Smith family. Brad was a great kid with a big heart. May he rest in God’s loving arms
I am saddened to hear about Brad’s passing. We graduated together and were classmates since kindergarten. He was always very sweet. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. Wishing his family comfort during this time.
Will always remember the good times we shared in grade, middle and high school. You were definitely the ladies man! God bless you and your family, and may you Rest In Peace.
We are so sorry to hear about Brad. I remember him coming over our house when he was younger to play with Brianna and other kids. You were the best of parents. I will always remember you guys walking by the house.
My thoughts and preyers go out to all.
always a smile and a story. We will miss you Brad