Dear Community: Some Sad News

[Dee Dee Warren]

Jonathan Stephen DiLeo (known to us as JSDileo) passed away on Thursday, December 4, 2008 from complications related to the treatment of a brain tumor. He was only 17 years old.



Here is his memorial page at the funeral home. (http://www.webfh.com/fh/obituaries/obituary.cfm?o_id=214213&fh_id=10802&ck=1)

The forum will closed on the day of his funeral, December 10, 2008. TheologyWeb has purchased a large floral arrangement to be sent to the funeral home on the 9th for his wake. The sentiments on the card are expressed as on behalf of the entire community.

If any individual members wish to send some modest arrangements on their own behalf, I am sure it would be of some consolation to the family. I wanted to let you know that a large stand spray has already been purchased so that the members would know that there will be a very visible expression of the community's condolences, so that if you were to send a modest floral arrangement that would be completely appropriate.

I encourage everyone to sign the guestbook at the Funeral Home page. If anyone lives in that area and can attend the funeral or wake, please let me know. If at all possible, I believe that someone representing the community needs to be there.

If you know of anyone who was his friend that may not see this thread, please do what you can to pass on the news.

[lilpixieofterror]

What sad news to hear. :bawl:

Thanks for telling us Dizzle and I guess now he is finally with Him.

[Michelle]

:sad:
This is very sad news.

[MarcusAndreas]

:bawl:
RIP

[Kelp]

:sad: My prayers go out to his loved ones.

[Sparko]

:pray:

He will be missed.

[JonLanceBarker]

:cross: :candle:

Lord Jesus Christ, give him rest, peace, the company of your saints, and the light of your presence.

Lord have mercy.

[Dee Dee Warren]

I didn't know Jonathan incredibly well but I remember we had some PM conversations a while back. Didn't he have a different user name at some point? I do remember being very amazed at his apologetics ability at such a young age. When I was 17, God was the last thing from my mind.

[MarcusAndreas]

I signed the guestbook, and I am waiting for my message to be approved. I said "Goodbye"

Goodbye. :candle:

[mossrose]

He will be missed here.

I didn't even know he was not well.

:frown:

His family will be in my prayers.

[lilpixieofterror]

I didn't know Jonathan incredibly well but I remember we had some PM conversations a while back. Didn't he have a different user name at some point? I do remember being very amazed at his apologetics ability at such a young age. When I was 17, God was the last thing from my mind.

I don't think so. I do know that he liked Avatar: The Last Air Bender though (judging from his avatars).

[Michelle]

I do remember being very amazed at his apologetics ability at such a young age. When I was 17, God was the last thing from my mind.

:yes:

[Johnny MacManky]

His sig quote is an awesome parting comment: "...Lord, you who hurt us in order to heal us and kill us so that we might not die apart from you."-Saint Augustine

[rogue06]

It always seems even worse when the pass at such a young age. :pray:

[Dee Dee Warren]

BTW, here is the message on the TheologyWeb arrangement


Jonathan was a much loved member of our community. We are going to truly miss him. There are literally hundreds of people that are in mourning for him all over the world.
Signed: On Behalf of TheologyWeb.com

[Dee Dee Warren]

If you can afford to do so, I really do encourage sending an arrangement or card. I know when my parents passed away, the amazement of flowers pouring in from people I never knew they touched was very encouraging to me. I can only imagine it would be all the more greater for parents who lost a child so that they know even at such a young age, he had a lot of people who cared.

Here is where I find sometimes what keeps me going here and elsewhere on the Net. We are from all over, we may never meet, but we are all joined together over thousands of miles and widely different cultures and beliefs.

[MarcusAndreas]

BTW, here is the message on the TheologyWeb arrangement
That is a good message, Dizzle.

Unfortunately... I don't think I can do anything, except pray.

[Dee Dee Warren]

Jonathan was a member at DeviantART, if anyone is active there, can you please let the appropriate leadership there know. They might want to organize something. I do not know if he was a member of any other communities. If someone could perhaps do a google search for his username. I know when Bandecoot left us, he was a member of many communities, and they were grateful they were notified.

[Dee Dee Warren]

Also we typically send a copy of the memorial thread to the family, so please post here freely to talk about Jonathan. It will be treasured by his family.

[gharfish]

How truly truly awful. How very tragic !

Is it OK to ask where on TWeb he was last active ? I recall his user name, certainly, but I am fuzzy on what "he's like." Maybe it would be best not to disclose that. I'll look that up for myself.

Gosh, how pitifully sad. ...Really a rotten deal there for him and his loved ones and friends.

[Dee Dee Warren]

His last post was a birthday wish for Nick. He was sick for a little bit so he wasn't very active for a while. He was much more active last year. He was, however, in a lot of IM conversations with friends from here.

BTW, this is the stand spray arrangement that was purchased to be sent on behalf of the community.

[MarcusAndreas]

I found his deviantART account:
http://jsdileo.deviantart.com/

[Dee Dee Warren]

That is a good message, Dizzle.

Unfortunately... I don't think I can do anything, except pray.

Do not feel bad. Prayer for his family will be an eternal gift rather than flowers which fade. Some people will be able to do different things. I was just relating my own experiences with loss on how the flowers from strangers (to me) were comforting that my parents had so many friends. And the flowers cheered me when I brought them home and filled my house with a beautiful sweet scent during the following weeks.

[Dee Dee Warren]

I found his deviantART account:
http://jsdileo.deviantart.com/

I am not a member there so would not know who to contact. If someone is a member, please let them know. I tried to find an admin contact email and was unable.

[SteveF]

I'm very sorry to hear that. My condolences to the family. Although we didn't interact all that regularly, I know him to have been a valuable member of our online group. We may be online and not talking directly, but this doesn't lessen the strength and significance of our community. The sad loss of Jonathan is a deep blow to us all.

[Rayado]

:pray: Praying for his family.

[T-Shirt Ninja]

I didn't know him very well. However, from what I read of his posts I could tell he was an extremely intelligent dude (much smarter than I was at his age). I really appreciated insight he gave.

:pray:ing for his family.

[sylas]

That hits hard...

JSDileo and I interacted a couple of times in the forums, and it was always a pleasure.

I'm stunned to learn he was so young. He did mention it often enough in discussion, but that detail never really sank in for me. His posts showed an exceptional level of maturity, and also lots of real critical insight. My main hang out here is the science forums, where he also showed up from time to time. He had a lively mind and a heap of ability, and a thoroughly pleasant personality to go with it.

My deepest sympathy goes out to his friends and family. All beauty has its season, and none of us are here for long. JSDileo had less time than most of us, and that's tragic. But he's used it well and the echos linger.

Sylas

[lao tzu]

I'm a member at DeviantArt. I've just posted the following comment with a link to this thread.

To whom it may concern:

"Jonathan Stephen DiLeo (known to us as JSDileo) passed away on Thursday, December 4, 2008 from complications related to the treatment of a brain tumor. He was only 17 years old."

On behalf of the community at TheologyWeb.com, please accept our condolences, from our community to yours.

As ever, Jesse

[SteveF]

He had a lively mind and a heap of ability, and a thoroughly pleasant personality to go with it.

Yes. A good sense of humour too.

[Dee Dee Warren]

Thank you taoist, that is greatly appreciated.

[Brandalf85]

:frown: Sad news indeed. I didn't know him very well, but I saw him post from time to time. So young.

Farewell, friend.

[Abigail]

Oh my how sad for those he leaves. I cant believe he was so young ...barely older than my eldest son. I remember his blog post when he had some treatment and was thinking about him just the other day and wondering where how he was doing.

Safe with Jesus

[JardinPrayer]

I didn't have much interaction with him at all...yet I knew his username well. I'm not sure how that is the case, but I knew he was very young, too. I posted in his guest book. I am praying for him and his family.

[ApologiaPhoenix]

His last post was a birthday wish for Nick. He was sick for a little bit so he wasn't very active for a while. He was much more active last year. He was, however, in a lot of IM conversations with friends from here.


That's Jonathan for ya. He and I were probably closer than most people realize. When he had a "Tuesdays with Morrie" assignment for class where he had to interview someone on their views on various subjects, I was the one he chose and I remember those weeks well. I have the reviews he wrote of them and probably some of the conversations saved. I got more out of them than I think he did, but Jonathan was like a younger brother I wanted to see grow up right and we could talk about anything ranging from apologetics to girls that he knew. Getting to talk to him was a true joy and I ended up praying for him every night over some difficulties he was going through.

He was and is a great guy and he is truly missed.

[Spacefoetus]

This is really terrible news. I never really knew him, but I sure knew OF him and I enjoyed reading his posts and his blogs. I remember the last one was related to his condition and I thought "Wow, this kid is my age and he has this condition and he seems to be taking it so maturly". I really don't know if I could do that.

I can only rejoice in the knowledge that the beliefs that JSDiLeo held so dealry are actually true. Whilst I know some here will strongly disagree with me, I feel I have to say this- I will see Jonathon in the flesh, in the Eternal State, be it in Heaven, or a New Earth. And let that be a comfort to us all believers. I hope I'm not sounding exclusivistic here- forgive me, but I;m feeling understandably sad here, so I'm in a very rambling mood here. (I just realised I keep repeating the word "here")

Anyways...RIP man.

[Thespia]

He was my friend...

[TolkienFan]

Very sad news indeed.

I would like to say I had a good amount of interaction with JSD, but unfortunately I cannot. Though I did not interact with him much, from what I could surmise from reading his posts, he had a brilliance and wit that was beyond his years. Though I did not know him, I will certainly miss him. Though I don't know much about him, I can gather that the Lord used him to bless many.

My prayers go out to his family that the Lord will bless them and comfort them in this time.

[Glenn P]

This is so sad - and so wrong. This is not the way the world should be. I think rotten tragedies like this serve as a reminder that there really is a way that the world is meant to be, and this is not it. I really feel for the family. I'll be praying for them.

[brother vinny]

I think rotten tragedies like this serve as a reminder that there really is a way that the world is meant to be. . ..

Or, at the very least, that there is a law of averages (such as an average age for when people pass away) and that sometimes there are events that disappoint our expectations because death has visited the exception rather than the rule. But yes, it is sad.

[gharfish]

Is it OK ? PLEASE remove them, moderators if this in bad taste. ...from JardinPrayer's self pictures thread:

I now remember an online conversation with him about the Lord's Supper. He is indeed with the Lord Jesus now. His life is just beginning.




.

[brother vinny]

Thanks, gharfish. Having a face to go with the name help personalize this a bit.

[Dee Dee Warren]

He was my friend...

60570

I know some don't understand, but I like to express myself in pictures. Your words hit me as those were the simple words of Xena at the funeral pyre of Marcus. She simply stepped forward and said, "He was my friend." It was incredibly powerful.

[ApologiaPhoenix]

I express myself in my blog at times. I did a memorial tonight for Jonathan in it. Please make sure the family gets it.

[Dee Dee Warren]

Link please?

[ApologiaPhoenix]

http://deeperwaters.wordpress.com/2008/12/07/remembering-jonathan/

[RumTumTugger]

I am also one of those who was constantly amazed at the maturity shown by Jonathin in his posts. he will be missed.

My prayers go with his family and friends as they deal with this loss.

:candle:

[Meta Knight]

Oh my goodness. I had no idea anything was wrong. I have only the fondest memories of my interactions with him...I'm sorry, I'm a very inarticulate person, so I don't even know what to say... :bawl:

[JillPole]

What? I'm actually very shocked by this. Hm...

[Telleriab2]

Gosh. This is awful... :sad:

[Chaotic Void]

Wow... and we were the same age, too... It really hits me hard.
:sad:

I rarely saw him post, but when he did, his posts were full of substance and insight way beyond his years.

I'll miss him. :pray:

[Philosophickle]

I have no idea what to say. I can't imagine what his parents are going through. A wonderful, courteous and smart person was taken to be with the Lord.

DD, thank you for the flowers and everything. They are very pretty.

[NeilUnreal]

:pray:

[Frogwarrior]

13But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.

14For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.

15For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.

16For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:

17Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

18Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

:pray:

[xtreem5150ahm]

Dear Lord,

Thank you for bringing our friend home to You. Protect and comfort his friends and family, while we wait to be with you.

In Jesus' name,
Amen.

[Abykale]

I thought he was pretty cool, but I never got to know him personally. Now I really, really wish I had. I missed a great opportunity.

:sad:



I'm wondering, is there anyone at all who was in contact with him during the last two months? There are some things I'm curious about.

[Bill the Cat]

Jonathan Stephen DiLeo (known to us as JSDileo) passed away on Thursday, December 4, 2008 from complications related to the treatment of a brain tumor. He was only 17 years old.



Here is his memorial page at the funeral home. (http://www.webfh.com/fh/obituaries/obituary.cfm?o_id=214213&fh_id=10802&ck=1)

The forum will closed on the day of his funeral, December 10, 2008. TheologyWeb has purchased a large floral arrangement to be sent to the funeral home on the 9th for his wake. The sentiments on the card are expressed as on behalf of the entire community.

If any individual members wish to send some modest arrangements on their own behalf, I am sure it would be of some consolation to the family. I wanted to let you know that a large stand spray has already been purchased so that the members would know that there will be a very visible expression of the community's condolences, so that if you were to send a modest floral arrangement that would be completely appropriate.

I encourage everyone to sign the guestbook at the Funeral Home page. If anyone lives in that area and can attend the funeral or wake, please let me know. If at all possible, I believe that someone representing the community needs to be there.

If you know of anyone who was his friend that may not see this thread, please do what you can to pass on the news.

:sad:

[LilPunkishOfTerror]

This is unbelievably sad. :bawl:

[ApologiaPhoenix]

If this post needs to be moved, feel free to do so as I don't wish to distract from the sentiments, but I did start thinking about this shortly after I woke up this morning.

Last night, I read the guestbook online for the service after my entry was approved and was amazed by something. So many people saying along the lines of "I never met your son, but we met at a Theology Forum online and..." Of course, it would be followed by various compliments.

I just find it so incredible now that we live in a day and age where we can touch so many lives all around the world. I could fly to a number of places in the world right now and know if I gave advance notice, I would have friends I've never seen waiting for me when I landed.

If it wasn't for the net, I'd never have got to know Jonathan and I ponder what it will be like when we get to Heaven and we look for the people we know. Maybe somehow we will not know them by their bodies, as we tend to know people here, but we will know them by the soul within that will entirely shine through.

I'm quite thankful to be blessed to live in a day and age where I can know people I never would have known had I lived earlier.

[Meta Knight]

When I clicked on the link to leave a comment in the guest book, Pandora started playing "Dust in the Wind." Somehow that seems very appropriate.

[Leonhard]

Goodnight Jonathan, thanks for stopping by... :sad:

[The Curtmudgeon]

Like several others who have already posted, I didn't have all that many "conversations" with Jonathan here, but I do remember him fondly and feel his loss keenly. I can only think of a line from a song, "He [God] must have loved him dearly, to have taken him so soon."

Looking forward to seeing you again, Jonathan.

Curt

[luv1another]

just as a pebble thrown into a pond creates a ripple that reaches to the ponds edge. so too has johnathons life touched those around him.... his ripple will be felt for a very long time to come in others lives that he touched whether briefly or for years until one day we meet him in the beauty and majesty of Gods kingdom.

[Littlejoe]

Wow...just WOW! I never knew he was so young. I also didn't interact with him here much, but I definitely have.

This loss really hit those of us who have children his age...I can't help wondering how I would be able to endure the loss of my 17 y/o son. My prayers are definitely with those he leaves behind...
:pray:

LJ

[MooseOnTheLoose]

Your passing from this life is sad, but we know where you're going, and we know who you'll be with.

For you, eternity starts now.

[$cirisme]

We do not serve a God made with human hands, nor do we serve one that can't relate with our sufferings. While we were still imperfect and far from God, God came to us. It was His perfect will for Jesus to be crushed and to suffer for us. We rarely understand or know God's purpose, but if there is one thing I have come to learn, it is always Good with a capital G.

We mourn Jonathan's life. Not because we are sad for Jonathan, we are incredibly joy filled about how he has now served as God has asked him to serve on earth and for the fact he is now completely and totally within God's hands... no, we mourn for our loss. But to live is Christ and to die is gain! One day we will gain as Jonathan has now gained.

We miss you, and we love you in the Master Jesus. And now we look forward in eager anticipation for the day we are reunited together again. Peace.

[mig_killer2]

I didn't know him very well. However, from what I read of his posts I could tell he was an extremely intelligent dude (much smarter than I was at his age). I really appreciated insight he gave.

:pray:ing for his family.

was his account here closed or are his posts still archived?

I can't do much save for intercessions/prayers on behalf of his family

ADDENDUM: I found his account, and wow. His ability to defend the faith was fantastic for being so young.

ADDENDUM: Scratch the phrase "for being so young", his ability to defend the faith was fantastic period.

[Salty]

BTW, here is the message on the TheologyWeb arrangementThank you, T-Web folk, for doing that.

G-d, bless Jonathan's family and give them strength, Your love and Your peace.

[Alan3838]

His family will be in the thoughts and prayers of my family.

[One Bad Pig]

Lord, have mercy. :opray: God grant him everlasting rest. :candle:

[Iriscanine]

I am Jonathan's best friend (and girlfriend, too I suppose you could say). I joined TWeb for the sole purpose of being able to see his posts and leave comments, but I feel that I should post here.

I only knew him for two years, and those two years were the best of my life. He is incredibly intelligent, but the first thing that most people saw when they looked at him was his shining personality. Once in Barnes and Noble, he asked a perfect stranger at the table next to us if he could borrow a chair and ended up in a 20 minute conversation! He is the only person I know of who I could talk to for 6 hours on the phone and not run out of things to say.

For those who don't know, he was diagnosed in August with a malignant germ cell tumor located in his brain. He underwent chemotherapy, and he and his family travelled to MD Anderson in Houston for more intensive treatment and surgery. From what I understand, he died due to complications from the surgery.

I went to see him the Friday before his death (a 6 hour drive from my house). He was still recovering from the surgery and found it hard to stand and walk, but when he saw me, a huge smile spread across his face. Sometimes when I close my eyes, I see him smiling at me like that. At the end of my short visit, he was able to stand up to give me a hug.

During his chemo treatments, he was having trouble concentrating and was getting bored easily, so I invited him over to my house to play board games and watch movies. One day we were putting together a giant floor puzzle of the United States on the carpet in my living room. He put down Wisconsin and looked at me with tears in his eyes. He told me that he wanted to change the world. I see through all of the posts here and other places, that he has and he will continue to do so.

On Wednesday, I am one of the people giving his eulogy. I don't know what I'm going to say yet, but I know that the comments left here by all of these wonderful people will give me strength to say what Jonathan wants to be said.

Until recently, I was an atheist. Jonathan has helped me renew my faith in God, and now I am positive that I will be with him again.

[Meta Knight]

I am Jonathan's best friend (and girlfriend, too I suppose you could say). I joined TWeb for the sole purpose of being able to see his posts and leave comments, but I feel that I should post here.

I only knew him for two years, and those two years were the best of my life. He is incredibly intelligent, but the first thing that most people saw when they looked at him was his shining personality. Once in Barnes and Noble, he asked a perfect stranger at the table next to us if he could borrow a chair and ended up in a 20 minute conversation! He is the only person I know of who I could talk to for 6 hours on the phone and not run out of things to say.

For those who don't know, he was diagnosed in August with a malignant germ cell tumor located in his brain. He underwent chemotherapy, and he and his family travelled to MD Anderson in Houston for more intensive treatment and surgery. From what I understand, he died due to complications from the surgery.

I went to see him the Friday before his death (a 6 hour drive from my house). He was still recovering from the surgery and found it hard to stand and walk, but when he saw me, a huge smile spread across his face. Sometimes when I close my eyes, I see him smiling at me like that. At the end of my short visit, he was able to stand up to give me a hug.

During his chemo treatments, he was having trouble concentrating and was getting bored easily, so I invited him over to my house to play board games and watch movies. One day we were putting together a giant floor puzzle of the United States on the carpet in my living room. He put down Wisconsin and looked at me with tears in his eyes. He told me that he wanted to change the world. I see through all of the posts here and other places, that he has and he will continue to do so.

On Wednesday, I am one of the people giving his eulogy. I don't know what I'm going to say yet, but I know that the comments left here by all of these wonderful people will give me strength to say what Jonathan wants to be said.

Until recently, I was an atheist. Jonathan has helped me renew my faith in God, and now I am positive that I will be with him again.
I'm very glad you shared that with us. I miss him terribly, and I only knew him as a screen name. I can't imagine how hard it must be for you.

[Dee Dee Warren]

I am Jonathan's best friend (and girlfriend, too I suppose you could say). I joined TWeb for the sole purpose of being able to see his posts and leave comments, but I feel that I should post here.

I only knew him for two years, and those two years were the best of my life. He is incredibly intelligent, but the first thing that most people saw when they looked at him was his shining personality. Once in Barnes and Noble, he asked a perfect stranger at the table next to us if he could borrow a chair and ended up in a 20 minute conversation! He is the only person I know of who I could talk to for 6 hours on the phone and not run out of things to say.

For those who don't know, he was diagnosed in August with a malignant germ cell tumor located in his brain. He underwent chemotherapy, and he and his family travelled to MD Anderson in Houston for more intensive treatment and surgery. From what I understand, he died due to complications from the surgery.

I went to see him the Friday before his death (a 6 hour drive from my house). He was still recovering from the surgery and found it hard to stand and walk, but when he saw me, a huge smile spread across his face. Sometimes when I close my eyes, I see him smiling at me like that. At the end of my short visit, he was able to stand up to give me a hug.

During his chemo treatments, he was having trouble concentrating and was getting bored easily, so I invited him over to my house to play board games and watch movies. One day we were putting together a giant floor puzzle of the United States on the carpet in my living room. He put down Wisconsin and looked at me with tears in his eyes. He told me that he wanted to change the world. I see through all of the posts here and other places, that he has and he will continue to do so.

On Wednesday, I am one of the people giving his eulogy. I don't know what I'm going to say yet, but I know that the comments left here by all of these wonderful people will give me strength to say what Jonathan wants to be said.

Until recently, I was an atheist. Jonathan has helped me renew my faith in God, and now I am positive that I will be with him again.

Thank you Iris for coming and sharing with us. Please be sure to save a copy of this thread on Tues if you want to refer to any of the comments as the forum will be closed on Wednesday to pay our respects.

[SteveF]

I am Jonathan's best friend (and girlfriend, too I suppose you could say). I joined TWeb for the sole purpose of being able to see his posts and leave comments, but I feel that I should post here.

I only knew him for two years, and those two years were the best of my life. He is incredibly intelligent, but the first thing that most people saw when they looked at him was his shining personality. Once in Barnes and Noble, he asked a perfect stranger at the table next to us if he could borrow a chair and ended up in a 20 minute conversation! He is the only person I know of who I could talk to for 6 hours on the phone and not run out of things to say.

For those who don't know, he was diagnosed in August with a malignant germ cell tumor located in his brain. He underwent chemotherapy, and he and his family travelled to MD Anderson in Houston for more intensive treatment and surgery. From what I understand, he died due to complications from the surgery.

I went to see him the Friday before his death (a 6 hour drive from my house). He was still recovering from the surgery and found it hard to stand and walk, but when he saw me, a huge smile spread across his face. Sometimes when I close my eyes, I see him smiling at me like that. At the end of my short visit, he was able to stand up to give me a hug.

During his chemo treatments, he was having trouble concentrating and was getting bored easily, so I invited him over to my house to play board games and watch movies. One day we were putting together a giant floor puzzle of the United States on the carpet in my living room. He put down Wisconsin and looked at me with tears in his eyes. He told me that he wanted to change the world. I see through all of the posts here and other places, that he has and he will continue to do so.

On Wednesday, I am one of the people giving his eulogy. I don't know what I'm going to say yet, but I know that the comments left here by all of these wonderful people will give me strength to say what Jonathan wants to be said.

Until recently, I was an atheist. Jonathan has helped me renew my faith in God, and now I am positive that I will be with him again.

Thanks for this. My thoughts are with you.

[Roy]

I'm stunned to learn he was so young.

Likewise - he always seemed very mature and educated to me as well. A sad loss.

Roy

[ApologiaPhoenix]

I am Jonathan's best friend (and girlfriend, too I suppose you could say). I joined TWeb for the sole purpose of being able to see his posts and leave comments, but I feel that I should post here.

I only knew him for two years, and those two years were the best of my life. He is incredibly intelligent, but the first thing that most people saw when they looked at him was his shining personality. Once in Barnes and Noble, he asked a perfect stranger at the table next to us if he could borrow a chair and ended up in a 20 minute conversation! He is the only person I know of who I could talk to for 6 hours on the phone and not run out of things to say.

For those who don't know, he was diagnosed in August with a malignant germ cell tumor located in his brain. He underwent chemotherapy, and he and his family travelled to MD Anderson in Houston for more intensive treatment and surgery. From what I understand, he died due to complications from the surgery.

I went to see him the Friday before his death (a 6 hour drive from my house). He was still recovering from the surgery and found it hard to stand and walk, but when he saw me, a huge smile spread across his face. Sometimes when I close my eyes, I see him smiling at me like that. At the end of my short visit, he was able to stand up to give me a hug.

During his chemo treatments, he was having trouble concentrating and was getting bored easily, so I invited him over to my house to play board games and watch movies. One day we were putting together a giant floor puzzle of the United States on the carpet in my living room. He put down Wisconsin and looked at me with tears in his eyes. He told me that he wanted to change the world. I see through all of the posts here and other places, that he has and he will continue to do so.

On Wednesday, I am one of the people giving his eulogy. I don't know what I'm going to say yet, but I know that the comments left here by all of these wonderful people will give me strength to say what Jonathan wants to be said.

Until recently, I was an atheist. Jonathan has helped me renew my faith in God, and now I am positive that I will be with him again.

Thank you Iris and please stick around here. Since you've made a change from an atheist, many of us would love to help you on that new walk of yours. Jonathan would do it for you. We want to extend the favor.

[Darth Executor]

This is horrible. I don't even know what to say so I'll just shut up.

[Vigilante]

I haven't talked to him in some time, but the screen name brings positive thoughts back to me, I'll have to look up some old stuff like others have done.

Thanks Iris for sharing, sounds like you were best friends with a one-of-a-kind type dude!

I find it interesting that some of the brightest, most caring, deep thinkers are those with serious "problems". He was probably never closer to God then in those last days and weeks.

He will be missed, and a chunk of his mind and personality will continue on here and elsewhere.

God bless his family, and his girlfriend!


Peace

[mig_killer2]

I am Jonathan's best friend (and girlfriend, too I suppose you could say). I joined TWeb for the sole purpose of being able to see his posts and leave comments, but I feel that I should post here.

I only knew him for two years, and those two years were the best of my life. He is incredibly intelligent, but the first thing that most people saw when they looked at him was his shining personality. Once in Barnes and Noble, he asked a perfect stranger at the table next to us if he could borrow a chair and ended up in a 20 minute conversation! He is the only person I know of who I could talk to for 6 hours on the phone and not run out of things to say.

For those who don't know, he was diagnosed in August with a malignant germ cell tumor located in his brain. He underwent chemotherapy, and he and his family travelled to MD Anderson in Houston for more intensive treatment and surgery. From what I understand, he died due to complications from the surgery.

I went to see him the Friday before his death (a 6 hour drive from my house). He was still recovering from the surgery and found it hard to stand and walk, but when he saw me, a huge smile spread across his face. Sometimes when I close my eyes, I see him smiling at me like that. At the end of my short visit, he was able to stand up to give me a hug.

During his chemo treatments, he was having trouble concentrating and was getting bored easily, so I invited him over to my house to play board games and watch movies. One day we were putting together a giant floor puzzle of the United States on the carpet in my living room. He put down Wisconsin and looked at me with tears in his eyes. He told me that he wanted to change the world. I see through all of the posts here and other places, that he has and he will continue to do so.

On Wednesday, I am one of the people giving his eulogy. I don't know what I'm going to say yet, but I know that the comments left here by all of these wonderful people will give me strength to say what Jonathan wants to be said.

Until recently, I was an atheist. Jonathan has helped me renew my faith in God, and now I am positive that I will be with him again. that was the most beautiful thing....I have ever read...ever.

[Crow]

I always had trouble picturing him as a teenage kid. He seemed so much older.

May God comfort his family and all lucky enough to have known him.

[Alucard]

I am Jonathan's best friend (and girlfriend, too I suppose you could say). I joined TWeb for the sole purpose of being able to see his posts and leave comments, but I feel that I should post here.

I only knew him for two years, and those two years were the best of my life. He is incredibly intelligent, but the first thing that most people saw when they looked at him was his shining personality. Once in Barnes and Noble, he asked a perfect stranger at the table next to us if he could borrow a chair and ended up in a 20 minute conversation! He is the only person I know of who I could talk to for 6 hours on the phone and not run out of things to say.

For those who don't know, he was diagnosed in August with a malignant germ cell tumor located in his brain. He underwent chemotherapy, and he and his family travelled to MD Anderson in Houston for more intensive treatment and surgery. From what I understand, he died due to complications from the surgery.

I went to see him the Friday before his death (a 6 hour drive from my house). He was still recovering from the surgery and found it hard to stand and walk, but when he saw me, a huge smile spread across his face. Sometimes when I close my eyes, I see him smiling at me like that. At the end of my short visit, he was able to stand up to give me a hug.

During his chemo treatments, he was having trouble concentrating and was getting bored easily, so I invited him over to my house to play board games and watch movies. One day we were putting together a giant floor puzzle of the United States on the carpet in my living room. He put down Wisconsin and looked at me with tears in his eyes. He told me that he wanted to change the world. I see through all of the posts here and other places, that he has and he will continue to do so.

On Wednesday, I am one of the people giving his eulogy. I don't know what I'm going to say yet, but I know that the comments left here by all of these wonderful people will give me strength to say what Jonathan wants to be said.

Until recently, I was an atheist. Jonathan has helped me renew my faith in God, and now I am positive that I will be with him again.

This made me cry.

I talked with him only a couple of times. But I will forever appreciate the post he wrote for my friend Haddy in her question thread on the Tektonics section. She still has not found the faith, but his love for those who he didn't know was astounding.

Rest in peace, Jonathan. Eternal be your memory.

[MarcusAndreas]

I am Jonathan's best friend (and girlfriend, too I suppose you could say). I joined TWeb for the sole purpose of being able to see his posts and leave comments, but I feel that I should post here.

I only knew him for two years, and those two years were the best of my life. He is incredibly intelligent, but the first thing that most people saw when they looked at him was his shining personality. Once in Barnes and Noble, he asked a perfect stranger at the table next to us if he could borrow a chair and ended up in a 20 minute conversation! He is the only person I know of who I could talk to for 6 hours on the phone and not run out of things to say.

For those who don't know, he was diagnosed in August with a malignant germ cell tumor located in his brain. He underwent chemotherapy, and he and his family travelled to MD Anderson in Houston for more intensive treatment and surgery. From what I understand, he died due to complications from the surgery.

I went to see him the Friday before his death (a 6 hour drive from my house). He was still recovering from the surgery and found it hard to stand and walk, but when he saw me, a huge smile spread across his face. Sometimes when I close my eyes, I see him smiling at me like that. At the end of my short visit, he was able to stand up to give me a hug.

During his chemo treatments, he was having trouble concentrating and was getting bored easily, so I invited him over to my house to play board games and watch movies. One day we were putting together a giant floor puzzle of the United States on the carpet in my living room. He put down Wisconsin and looked at me with tears in his eyes. He told me that he wanted to change the world. I see through all of the posts here and other places, that he has and he will continue to do so.

On Wednesday, I am one of the people giving his eulogy. I don't know what I'm going to say yet, but I know that the comments left here by all of these wonderful people will give me strength to say what Jonathan wants to be said.

Until recently, I was an atheist. Jonathan has helped me renew my faith in God, and now I am positive that I will be with him again.

Thank you for sharing that with us. It was very touching.

[wattsr1]

Jonathan Stephen DiLeo (known to us as JSDileo) passed away on Thursday, December 4, 2008 from complications related to the treatment of a brain tumor. He was only 17 years old.



Here is his memorial page at the funeral home. (http://www.webfh.com/fh/obituaries/obituary.cfm?o_id=214213&fh_id=10802&ck=1)

The forum will closed on the day of his funeral, December 10, 2008. TheologyWeb has purchased a large floral arrangement to be sent to the funeral home on the 9th for his wake. The sentiments on the card are expressed as on behalf of the entire community.

If any individual members wish to send some modest arrangements on their own behalf, I am sure it would be of some consolation to the family. I wanted to let you know that a large stand spray has already been purchased so that the members would know that there will be a very visible expression of the community's condolences, so that if you were to send a modest floral arrangement that would be completely appropriate.

I encourage everyone to sign the guestbook at the Funeral Home page. If anyone lives in that area and can attend the funeral or wake, please let me know. If at all possible, I believe that someone representing the community needs to be there.

If you know of anyone who was his friend that may not see this thread, please do what you can to pass on the news.

Sad, very sad.

I was shocked to read of Jonathan's age. Had met him around the traps on a few occasions and he behaved with a maturity beyond his years.

He appeared to be an impressive young man.


Regards, Roland

[nrajeff]

I just learned the tragic news. My condolences to all who were close to Jonathan, a remarkable person by all accounts. I have faith that he is in good hands, and is sharing love and bringing smiles to people on the other side.

[Manwë Súlimo]

I am Jonathan's best friend (and girlfriend, too I suppose you could say). I joined TWeb for the sole purpose of being able to see his posts and leave comments, but I feel that I should post here.

I only knew him for two years, and those two years were the best of my life. He is incredibly intelligent, but the first thing that most people saw when they looked at him was his shining personality. Once in Barnes and Noble, he asked a perfect stranger at the table next to us if he could borrow a chair and ended up in a 20 minute conversation! He is the only person I know of who I could talk to for 6 hours on the phone and not run out of things to say.

For those who don't know, he was diagnosed in August with a malignant germ cell tumor located in his brain. He underwent chemotherapy, and he and his family travelled to MD Anderson in Houston for more intensive treatment and surgery. From what I understand, he died due to complications from the surgery.

I went to see him the Friday before his death (a 6 hour drive from my house). He was still recovering from the surgery and found it hard to stand and walk, but when he saw me, a huge smile spread across his face. Sometimes when I close my eyes, I see him smiling at me like that. At the end of my short visit, he was able to stand up to give me a hug.

During his chemo treatments, he was having trouble concentrating and was getting bored easily, so I invited him over to my house to play board games and watch movies. One day we were putting together a giant floor puzzle of the United States on the carpet in my living room. He put down Wisconsin and looked at me with tears in his eyes. He told me that he wanted to change the world. I see through all of the posts here and other places, that he has and he will continue to do so.

On Wednesday, I am one of the people giving his eulogy. I don't know what I'm going to say yet, but I know that the comments left here by all of these wonderful people will give me strength to say what Jonathan wants to be said.

Until recently, I was an atheist. Jonathan has helped me renew my faith in God, and now I am positive that I will be with him again.

Wow. It makes me wish that I knew this guy, on here or in real life.


One day we were putting together a giant floor puzzle of the United States on the carpet in my living room. He put down Wisconsin and looked at me with tears in his eyes. He told me that he wanted to change the world.

:bawl:

[Brandalf85]

"A hero need not speak. For when he is gone, the world will speak for him."

[T-Shirt Ninja]

One day we were putting together a giant floor puzzle of the United States on the carpet in my living room. He put down Wisconsin and looked at me with tears in his eyes. He told me that he wanted to change the world. I see through all of the posts here and other places, that he has and he will continue to do so.

:yes:

I think for those of us in ministry that Jonathan will be an inspiration in our hard and difficult times.

[lilpixieofterror]

I am Jonathan's best friend (and girlfriend, too I suppose you could say). I joined TWeb for the sole purpose of being able to see his posts and leave comments, but I feel that I should post here.

I only knew him for two years, and those two years were the best of my life. He is incredibly intelligent, but the first thing that most people saw when they looked at him was his shining personality. Once in Barnes and Noble, he asked a perfect stranger at the table next to us if he could borrow a chair and ended up in a 20 minute conversation! He is the only person I know of who I could talk to for 6 hours on the phone and not run out of things to say.

For those who don't know, he was diagnosed in August with a malignant germ cell tumor located in his brain. He underwent chemotherapy, and he and his family travelled to MD Anderson in Houston for more intensive treatment and surgery. From what I understand, he died due to complications from the surgery.

I went to see him the Friday before his death (a 6 hour drive from my house). He was still recovering from the surgery and found it hard to stand and walk, but when he saw me, a huge smile spread across his face. Sometimes when I close my eyes, I see him smiling at me like that. At the end of my short visit, he was able to stand up to give me a hug.

During his chemo treatments, he was having trouble concentrating and was getting bored easily, so I invited him over to my house to play board games and watch movies. One day we were putting together a giant floor puzzle of the United States on the carpet in my living room. He put down Wisconsin and looked at me with tears in his eyes. He told me that he wanted to change the world. I see through all of the posts here and other places, that he has and he will continue to do so.

On Wednesday, I am one of the people giving his eulogy. I don't know what I'm going to say yet, but I know that the comments left here by all of these wonderful people will give me strength to say what Jonathan wants to be said.

Until recently, I was an atheist. Jonathan has helped me renew my faith in God, and now I am positive that I will be with him again.

Don't be a stranger and stay and chat with us all you want. Myself and many of us are on AIM and we have paltalk every weekend. A friend of JSD is a friend of ours, so make yourself confortable and stick around.

[gharfish]

I like J. S. Dileo's testimony entry, on his bio./profile page.

[MooseOnTheLoose]

The forum closure/tribute was a nice gesture, Dee Dee. :thumb:

[Jawa Man]

I was wondering if anyone could, just for my prayers, tell me what happened with his faith. I was reading his deviantART account and it said he was no longer a Christian from a post in October this year. Does anyone know what happened? I will be praying for him. Also, Iris, what you wrote was very moving. It made me think of my own girlfriend and how I hope we can have that same heart for each other.