Tyler J. Smith

Tyler J. Smith, 30, of Fawn Township, Allegheny County, passed away peacefully Sunday at UPMC St. Margaret, Pittsburgh.

Tyler was born in Natrona Heights on July 6, 1984. He was the son of Darlene R. Barnett Smith of Fawn Township and the late Kenneth L. Smith.

Tyler was a 2003 graduate of Highlands High School where he was a member of the school's marching band and an elite singing group called The Madrigals. He also attended Edinboro University where he was a resident assistant and a student coordinator from 2004 to 2008. He received a bachelor's degree in political science, graduating with honors.

Following his graduation, he worked for a subsidiary of The GameFly Co. as a Web administrator.

Tyler was a huge science-fiction fan. He considered himself an avid Trekkie, watching all of the Star Trek adventures. Through the Make-A-Wish program, Tyler flew to California to be involved with the making of the 30th anniversary of “Star Trek,” meeting many of the original casts. He also was a fan of the Star Wars Saga.

Tyler was an enthusiastic, faithful follower of the Pittsburgh Pirates and enjoyed watching the Steelers play as well. He enjoyed expressing himself by writing and creating artwork. Tyler enjoyed going to many air shows with his dad, watching The Blue Angels perform. Another interest that Tyler developed was a fascination with trains that he shared with his buddy, Ray Davidowski.

Even though Tyler had to deal with many obstacles in his life, he was always able to maintain his strength of character. He was strong and courageous and was always an inspiration to others. He was truly one-of-a-kind with a huge heart and a kind soul. He will truly be missed by many. Fly free and into the arms of your Father.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his brother, Nathan R. Smith of Natrona; his sister and brother-in-law, April L. and Nathan Petit of Brackenridge; his close friend, Scott Duell of Shinglehouse; and his maternal grandmother, Barbara Barnett of Callery.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Norman “Lefty” Barnett, and his paternal grandparents, Charles and Edith Smith.

Smith— The family and friends of Tyler J. Smith, who passed away Sunday, Sept. 7, 2014, will be received from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday in the Redmond Funeral Home, 524 High St., Freeport.Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday in the funeral home with the Rev. Tom Clyde officiating.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Make-A-Wish, The Gulf Tower, 707 Grant St., 37th Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15219-1938.To send a condolence, visit www.redmondfuneralhomeinc.com.