A breathtaking sunrise heralded the peaceful passing of James Andrew Smith, 36, of Appomattox. Drew, the beloved son of James and Peggy Smith, was born in Lynchburg on August 1, 1978, and died on October 29, 2014 at Lynchburg General Hospital from complications following a pedestrian accident. When he was 16, Drew barely survived another accident, and lived the rest of his life with disabilities brought on by a severe brain injury. Despite months of hospitalization, he persevered, and graduated on time with his ACHS class in 1996, a major accomplishment. In the years that followed, he never whined or complained, always quick to point out that there were many people worse off than himself. Drew never met a stranger; his interaction with others generated his happiness, and he loved the simple kindness of being included. His mother recalls stopping at a fast food restaurant in Lynchburg with him once, when he came back to the car with an elderly woman whom he had promised to take home because her car had broken down and she had no one to call. It turned out that she lived almost in Brookneal, but her praises for being aided by such a "fine young man" made up for any inconvenience. From then on, he wanted to offer a ride to anyone he saw walking. Through his darkest days, Drew maintained a good sense of humor, laughing at Life itself, even as his own life had more than its share of difficulties. His inside jokes and the ability to see humor in all situations will be greatly missed, along with his empathy and listening skills. He became a blood donor when he was a senior in high school, and donated thereafter whenever he could. More than anything, Drew loved the Lord and going to church. The fellowship with his church families was very important to him, and he always felt welcome in their presence, and in the presence of God. In addition to his parents, he leaves behind a brother, Chris Smith, a special niece and nephew, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, James and Mable Smith, and Wayne and Elsie Robinson. A celebration of Drew's life will be held Sunday, November 2, at Robinson Funeral Home in Appomattox at 2:30 p.m., officiated by Kent Hancock. Visitation will take place following the service, and at all other times at the home of his parents. If you would like to honor Drew in some way, he loved flowers, and would have appreciated them at his service, or donations in his name may be made to the Brain Injury Foundation of Virginia. 1506 Willow Lawn Drive, Suite 212, Richmond, VA 23230. Once, following his devastating accident on 9/11/94, Drew commented that he felt so lucky to have had the childhood that he experienced, with the freedom to run and play, because there were so many others who never had that chance to make such memories. Somewhere in Heaven, there is joyous laughter from the boy who has regained that exhilarating freedom, running and playing into eternity. Remember Drew for being a good, gentle, caring person during his time with us. Most of all, please honor him by always including others.