ELIZABETH, NJ — On May 25, students and families of Thomas Jefferson Arts Academy were made aware of the death of a fellow student through a letter sent by Principal Michael Ojeda.
Kevin Issac Goldsmith passed away the day prior at the Children Hospital of Philadelphia after complications with his Leukemia treatment. Kevin was a junior at the high school, known for being a student who was always willing to lend a hand. He had a love for music, playing many instruments including the guitar. His passion for baseball led him to playing for many teams across the City of Elizabeth and Union County, participating for many travel clubs and teams.
“While we mourn his loss, we take solace in the example he set and the spirit of friendship he shared with all of us,” said Principal Ojeda in a letter sent to the parents and teachers. “We honor his memory by living out the best virtues that he embodied and extending care and grace to our fellow students, staff, and families.”
Kevin’s father Joel set up a GoFundMe page, asking for people to help cover funeral expenses and any unpaid medical bills. At the time of publishing, the page had raised over $23,000- almost five times the original goal of $5,000.
Many of those who donated to the fundraiser shared their memories of Kevin to the page. One of the top donations was from a group of people who called themselves School 27 Family. The group also expressed the fond memories they shared with Kevin.
“Kevin walked the halls of School 27 proudly with his baseball bag hanging on his back. He smiled bright and always greeted his friends and his teachers. He made us laugh all the time and blessed us often with his musical talent. We were lucky to have him as a part of our family. We pray for his family and hope that they find solace knowing what a wonderful young man he was. He meant so much to us. May he rest in eternal peace.”
Former teachers and other educators also donated to the GoFundMe page and shared their memories of having Kevin in their classroom. One teacher shared the memories she had along with her donation.
“It is with heartfelt condolences that I write this loving tribute on behalf of your beloved son, Kevin. As a student, Kevin left a lasting impression on this educator. Seems like only yesterday that Kevin and I would be discussing his baseball stats or favorite rock bands of the ’70s and ’80s,” the teacher wrote. “Kevin was also a huge hit when he played the guitar at our talent show rocking a new hairstyle! Kevin was a true gentleman who was compassionate and kind. Kevin lived a life with purpose and passion,” she concluded.
Kevin is survived by his loving parents Joel and Yvette Goldsmith and his two sisters Kaylee and Sophie.
Kevin’s visitation will be held at Gray Funeral Home 12 Springfield Avenue in Cranford on Wednesday, June 2nd from 4pm-8pm, where his funeral service will begin at 11:00AM Thursday, June 3, 2021. Those who wish to virtually attend Kevin’s funeral may do so at this livestream link. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery, Westfield.
