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Nearly everyone in the Haughton community was rocked back on our heels Tuesday morning when we read these words on the Haughton High School Football Facebook page:

We are saddened to share the passing of senior defensive lineman Christian Smith who died suddenly last night. Please keep his family and friends in your prayers during this difficult time.

My youngest son, Colt McCoy, played football with Christian last year, and he told me, "Dad, that kid just never quit smiling."

It was a gut punch for the Haughton Bucs football program, for the students and faculty of Haughton High, and for all of us fans of the team.

But none of our woes can compare to the devastating loss to the family of Christian Smith, and now they find themselves in need of funds to help cover the funeral expenses.

Christian's uncle has created a GoFundMe page to hopefully raise the funds needed and he writes:

Hi everyone my name is Barakka Collins-Smith, and I am asking for everyone's help with burial expenses for my nephew Christian Smith. He was a beautiful soul and now he is a beautiful spirit. The family would really appreciate any and all the help given. Be blessed and please be a blessing to this family. Thank you so very much for all your help and generosity!

They have a goal of raising $20,000 for the funeral and at this writing they've only collected just over $5,000, so if the Lord blessed you with a little extra this month, maybe you can help out.

To make your donation, just go HERE.

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