PJ McGee’s Memory Lives On With Awards For ‘Bright Lights” At Joyner Elementary

TUPELO, MISS. (WCBI) – The legacy of a second grader who passed away last year continues at Tupelo’s Joyner Elementary School.

“P J was a bright light here at Joyner, he never had a frown on his face, always smiling,” said Dana Daugherty, who taught P J McGee in second grade challenge class. The seven year old passed away last December, after a sudden illness.

PJ’s Mother, Crystal, along with Joyner teachers and staff wanted to do something to honor his memory, so Wednesday morning, two second graders received the “Bright Light Christmas Gift Award’

“We did an all around student, somebody who was a friend to everybody, cause PJ was a friend to everybody, and somebody who also had good academically, good attendance, and everything cause PJ had all those qualities,” Daugherty said.

Teachers were asked to nominate a boy and girl for the first “Bright Light” Awards. Jasper Hall and Shelby Mister received this year’s award. Along with a certificate, each student also received a new bike.

Although Shelby had to take part in the event through FaceTime, she was excited.

What did you think about winning this purple bike?

“It was awesome,” Shelby said.

Jasper was recognized for his desire to help others, and his competitive nature, which teachers say was also a trait of PJ’s.

Tell us why it’s important to do the right things and help others out?

“So when you get a job, you can be helpful, nice and safe,” Jasper said.

PJ’s memory will also live on through an addition last spring to the playground. The newest  piece, in Ole Miss colors, which was PJ’s favorite football team, was purchased by the Joyner community in PJ’s memory.

Each December, two Joyner second graders will be presented with the “Bright Light Christmas Gift Award.”