Jackson Debrine-Christy

Jackson DeBrine-Christy, 9, of Olathe, KS, passed away Thursday November 5th following a long illness.

Jackson had a sunny personality and a good sense of humor which never waned throughout his difficult struggle with cancer. The competitive spirit which made him an excellent athlete inspired his friends, family and community. He swam and played soccer, baseball, flag football and basketball. During his rehabilitation period he worked hard in swim therapy and constantly challenged himself in his physical therapy sessions.

Jackson loved Spongebob, the Kansas Jayhawks and pirates. He was very artistic and was drawn to working with his hands -- being with his grandfather in the garden was a favorite pastime. He was very family-oriented and enjoyed being with his extended family during their frequent celebrations.

Kind and sentimental, Jackson will always be remembered surrounded by his adoring cousins Austin, Nicole, Natalie, Michael B, Michael C, Madison and Morgan. He loved animals as well and spent many hours playing with his matching Rat Terrier dogs, Ben and Lucy.

Jackson's last three years were enriched by the wonderful support of a loving community including the community of Scarborough Elementary School, where he attended fourth grade. He was active in the Dream Factory, receiving a trip to Disney World, and was chosen as the Dream Factory Christmas dream child. He was an honored guest of the Kansas City Renaissance Festival and was made an honorary member of the KU Marching Band. The family also attended many local sporting events including Kansas basketball and football games.

Jackson and his father shared a fascination for all sports. He loved to wrestle his Dad and fish with his grandma Christy. Jackson's father coached him in his last season of baseball. He also loved spending time with his cousins, Evan and Sam.

He is preceded in death by grandfather Robert F. DeBrine and 15 year-old cousin Emily DeBrine.

He is survived by mother Denise DeBrine, father Kevin Christy, step-mother Amie Christy, maternal grandmother Marilyn DeBrine, paternal grandparents Robert and Leora Christy, great-grandfather Ivan Christy, great-grandmother Mary L. Christy, and many loving aunts, uncles and cousins.

Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10 AM Monday, November 9, at Prince of Peace Catholic Church. Burial services will be in Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, Lenexa, KS. Friends may call from 6:30-8:30 PM Sunday at the church where the rosary will be said at 8:30. In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions to Children's Mercy Hospital or The Dream Factory of Kansas City.