I had the pleasure of working with the man I called "Smiley" for a couple years in Cookeville, TN.  He was incredibly kind, had an infectious smile, and brightened everyone's day.  I shared many great conversations with him, mostly regarding football as we were both big fans of the Titans and Vols.  He also checked in on my family as we welcomed our first child and shared that he had been praying for us.


My life is better having met him and I'll miss him.

Prayers for all his loved ones.

Zach Odom

Denise, I am so sad to hear this. Chris was the nicest guy with an unforgettable smile. I am proud to be your matchmaker. You are in my prayers, Sara (Wilkerson) Morgan 

Chris was my classmate at Celina High we used to trade cards and had some good times.   So sorry to hear of his passing . I'm so sorry to his family for their loss. Chris was always a very nice guy and kind to me . May the Lord bless and keep his family during this difficult time. Joseph Carmack.

Chris and Denise are such a precious precious couple (and SUPER great friends to have), and it is so very hard to understand why our Lord would choose to take Chris so soon in life. I know we are to trust and have faith that all things work to the good for those of us who love and believe in our Lord Jesus, but why does He take our loved ones from us so early? We don't have the answer to that now, but I honestly believe we will get lots and lots of answers when we all see Jesus in person, and we will also see Chris and all of our loved ones that have had to leave us for a short time! And... I personally am looking forward to someday re-joining Chris and Matt again in our Praise and Worship Team! And the next time it will be for eternity in Heaven, with absolutely no interruptions! Just loud guitars and praising our Lord Jesus, for ever and ever! :)
From Archie, Gloria, Austin and Adam, we love you Denise, Mia and Conrad so much, and as we've said many times before, we are here for you.

 Chris Smiley was a much admired, respected, full of life, never met a stranger person, that I proudly call a friend. He was a shining example of what our LORD expected and loved. A beacon of light for all, a person whose heart was full of love for his wife and family, life, and everyone in it. I cannot say enough about Chris to explain his demeanor and the smile that was always on his face. He helped me when dealing with a life changing event that I can never repay. His understanding and guidance could only be explained when you finally understood his outlook, love of GOD, and love for life.  
 Go in peace, my friend, and I'll catch up with you in time. I know you'll be at the gate welcoming all those you touched just with your smile and music. Love you, brother!

Chris was a great friend to our family!  Happy memories of Chris during his high school and college years! We loved Chris and he was always welcome in our home! Very glad to have known him and respected him! Condolences to his family and friends. 
The Hestand’s 
Ann
Boyd and family 
Cindy and family 


Denise, praying for you and the  family during this difficult time. Chris was always smiling and the pictures posted show the kind of person he was. I had this picture and wanted to share it. Chris received this award for 15 yrs of service with Pioneer Credit/Mariner Finance.  He was a kind and caring guy and will be missed. 

I only got to know Chris a short time while working at DHS. He was always so friendly and his name fit him perfectly! He always had a smile on his face.  My thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time.

Many thoughts and prayers for all you. I heard today and just sat for a while remembering all the years we worked together and how he would smile and talk about his faith. He loves Denise deeply and would always call her “his Bride”. I would hear him witnessing to others as well and I have no doubt he led many to the Lord on Walnut St in Smithville Tn. It was a blessing to have worked with Chris and to have seen his love of life and his love for the Lord. I pray God brings you all a measure of comfort in the days ahead and know that by having known Chris my life has been enriched. God Bless- 
Abigail 

To your family Chris, sorry for your loss. This picture brought back a flood great memories working with you brother. You was always smiling. You'll be greatly missed. God bless your family in this time of loss..
Sincerely
James "doc" Whittaker 

I am so sorry to hear of Chris’ passing. He was such a good person. He had a smile that could brighten any room. Saying many prayers for his family and friends. Rest Easy Chris. 

Our deepest condolences to Denise and family.  We were honored to know and love Chris and are deeply saddened by his death. 

Denise,  I was shocked to hear that Chris had passed. I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you.


OBITUARY

James Christopher "Chris" Smiley

July 3, 1970 – March 15, 2023

Kiser-Rose Hill Funeral Home

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