Community mourns student

Editor's note: Joseph Jones is a Register correspondent representing vermiliondaily.com. VERMILION — The community is mourning the sudden loss of Ellianna "Ellie" Smith, a seventh-grade student at Sailorway Middle School, who passed away Tuesday morning due to medical reasons, according to a GoFundMe set up to support her family. In a message to families, Vermilion Schools assistant superintendent Wes Weaver expressed the district's "deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences" to Ellianna's loved ones. Counselors from the Erie County Crisis Response Team will be on hand at Sailorway Middle School and Vermilion High School to support students and staff. Ellie, remembered as a "true ray of light," was known for her kindness, creativity and love of art. Friends and family described her as someone whose smile could light up a room and whose courage and individuality made her unforgettable. She is survived by her parents, Janice and Michael Smith, her brother, twin sisters, and many classmates and friends. The GoFundMe was created to help the family with funeral costs and other needs. As of Wednesday evening, more than $6,500 had been raised. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced. Those wishing to support the family can contribute at GoFundMe.com/f/ellianna-ellie-smith. In addition, the Vermilion Athletic Booster Club will have a collection container at this Friday evening's football game, with proceeds going to help the family with funeral costs. "We ask our community to come together in support and love during this difficult time," the club posted online.