Brayden Smith, who won five games in December 2020 and January 2021, passed away on February 5, the Las Vegas Review-Journal has reported. The cause of death was not revealed.
The Jeopardy! Fan wishes to give its condolences to Brayden’s family and friends.
According to Las Vegas local news reports, Smith had recently spent time in hospital; the cause of death was due to complications following recent surgery.
Hailed as “Alex’s Last Great Champion”, Brayden was looking forward to competing in the next Tournament of Champions. The second of four sons, Brayden was born in Henderson, NV. on September 6, 1996, to Scott and Deborah (Rudy) Smith. They survive, along with his brothers Bryce, 26, of Reno, NV, Brock, 18, and Brody, 15, both of Las Vegas, NV. Funeral arrangements are pending.
Donations in Brayden’s memory may be made to the Brayden Smith Memorial Fund, dedicated to furthering the educational aspirations of southern Nevada students.
I loved watching Brayden and cheering him on. One could see him mentally working through a clue until he was sure of the answer. He was so enthusiastic and just so much fun to watch. I was really looking forward to seeing him in the tournament of champions. Iām so very sorry to his family for the loss of this highly intelligent, bright and engaging young man. You are so very fortunate to have a lifetime of experience and memories with him.
Absolutely stunning.
This is so heart-breaking. He was so young. RIP
Horrible news. Was probably my favorite champion since taping resumed.
It was abundantly clear to me, from his first Jeopardy appearance, that Brayden was a remarkable human being. Not only was he highly intelligent, there was something more about him — a sense of humility, empathy, vulnerability….a real genuine human being. I am so proud of his accomplishments and want his family to know that he was a beacon of goodness and intelligence to Jeopardy viewers and fans.
RIP Brayden, you will be missed š
May this young man rest in peace. He was a good champ.