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By Carey Reeder | Managing Editor

Thorsby School held a school-wide remembrance ceremony in honor of the late Gage Roper on May 7. Thorsby faculty, staff and students all wore blue to school in honor of him the day of the ceremony, and they all gathered in the school’s playground for the moment of reflection.

The ceremony was centered around a wooden bench that featured a plaque with Roper’s name, and it was dedicated as a “buddy bench” for everyone in the school to use.

“Gage was a precious boy who loved school and everyone that he met dearly. He loved to run and play, so we could not think of a better place to gather to remember his life than on the playground as a constant reminder of the joy that he brought us all,” Thorsby Principal Holly Matson said during the ceremony. “Because he was a friend to everyone, we wanted to get a “buddy bench” in dedication to Gage. That way, anytime someone misses Gage or anytime someone just needs a buddy to talk to, they can use this bench to do so.”

A banner was hung on the fence remembering Roper, and a balloon release was held as well that sent dozens of balloons into the sky.

“One thing we have all learned from Gage and his time here with us, is that we should live each day to the fullest, because each day we are given is a gift and blessing,” Matson said. “Fly high Gage. We will remember you today, and every day, and the positive impact you made in each of our lives. You are forever in our hearts.”