Canton City Schools Superintendent Christopher Smith, 51, died Friday evening.
Smith, who served as superintendent of the district since February, was recently diagnosed with leukemia and took a medical leave to undergo treatment.
His son, Tyler Smith, said his father only learned he had leukemia less than two weeks ago.
He said his father was a very caring person, a self-starter and hard worker and was the definition of a leader.
“He lived his life by leaving things better than when he found it,” Tyler Smith said. “He was an incredible person and instilled so many qualities in the three of us.”
Christopher Smith and his wife, Debbi have two other children, son Connor Smith, 18, and daughter, Karoline Smith, 13.
Board of Education President Richard Milligan said Christopher Smith accepted a big challenge when he became superintendent.
“In the time he was with us, Chris displayed great leadership,” said Milligan. “He stepped in the district when we had a great need for leadership. He immediately got the respect of everyone in the district and was beloved by the people who worked with him. He was the right person at the right time.”
Smith joined the district in 2010 as the director of curriculum and instruction. Prior to that, he was superintendent of Plain schools for four years. He was also the human resources director for Massillon schools and taught in the instrumental music program at Plain schools from 1988 to 1991.
Funeral arrangements have not been finalized.
Marilyn Miller can be reached at mmiller@thebeaconjournal.com or 330-996-3098.