The heartbroken family of an 11-year-old boy who died in his sleep are paying tribute to his "larger than life" character and loving nature.
Gareth Crosby, known as Gazza to his friends and family, died overnight on Wednesday, April 22 at his home in Graig-y-Rhacca, Caerphilly.
He lived there with his mother, Bethan Jones, 32, and 12-year-old sister, Ella, Wales Online reported.
Gareth was diagnosed at a young age with complex epilepsy and a learning disability.
Following a post-mortem exam, his medical cause of death was given as sudden unexpected death in epilepsy and his family wanted to make clear his death was not related to coronavirus.
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Gareth's heartbroken family have paid tribute, describing him as a "larger than life character" who loved sport and his family.
They said: "[Gareth was] a cheeky, mischievous boy, always happy and had a smile on his face. He had a wicked sense of humour.
"Gareth loved football and rugby and would shout 'come on boys' at every Wales rugby match. He was a larger-than-life character, met once, never forgotten.
"He would hug everyone and demanded a kiss before people left - he always wanted to show love. He loved times with his big sister dressing up and dancing. He adored music, snap cards and making music videos with his sister and cousins."
Gareth had seizures most weeks as part of his complex epilepsy but his family said this "did not keep him from being the happy boy he was".
They said: "His mother was religious with his epilepsy care needs and he was supported by multiple epilepsy professionals. Gareth would have seizures most weeks and they would often come in clusters where he was prescribed rescue medication."
Gareth’s father passed away from cancer six years ago and Gareth would say “I miss my daddy” every day.
Miss Jones said the only comfort she has is knowing that her son is now with his dad.
Gareth attended Tyn-y-Wern Primary School and St James Primary School.
His family said: "When he attended Tyn-y-Wern, at the Friday assembly Gazza would put his hand up to say it was his birthday. Every Friday all the children and teachers would sing happy birthday to him without fail."
They said the support from the community has been "amazing" and a group was set up on social media called “Lighting the way for Gazza”.
In Gareth's memory, people in Graig-y-Rhacca, Bedwas and Trethomas have lit candles and played his favourite song, Life is a Highway, from his favourite film Cars.
His family say they are also very thankful to generous people in the local community who have shown "so much support" to them by donating food parcels, gifts and started collections.
Blue bows in his honour are also being sold and are being placed on people’s houses and cars.
The family said: "We are overwhelmed with the community support especially at this difficult time due to coronavirus. Gareth touched so many people’s lives and how well he was liked.
