FROM THE EDITOR: Celebrate the life of Josh Thomas

Today we mourn with the family and friends of Joshua Alan Thomas, the courageous Culpeper boy who died Sunday after a 14-month struggle with leukemia. It was a long, hard road for the 9-year-old. And the community was there with him - in spirit, prayers and support - every step of the way.

I had the pleasure of coaching Josh for three years in Little League. He loved baseball, and he was one of my best players.

Josh always had a big, looping uppercut at the plate. He swung for the fence each time, and when he connected, look out!
To the envy of other coaches, I selected Josh in the 2006 coach-pitch draft. A week later, he was diagnosed with leukemia. Josh only played one game that season, and my memories of him batting that spring day in his Nationals uniform are priceless.

After the final out, we gave Josh the game ball. Sadly, that was the last time his big smile graced a baseball diamond. It was painful watching Josh's condition deteriorate so rapidly over the past few weeks. His parents, Missy and Greg, endured so much agony and hopelessness.

The news of Josh's passing, while sad, actually came as a relief. The child was in a lot of pain, and it was just a matter of time. He fought the good fight, and now he has his reward.
Josh, I know you're up there with your Lord and Savior, running the bases and smacking a baseball. I look forward to the day when we can play catch once more.