Craig Evans Smith

Craig Evans Smith of Thornton, Colorado went to be with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on February 6, 2026, after a long illness. He was a great man, beloved husband, father, and grandfather who touched the lives of all who knew and loved him.

Craig was born on April 26, 1946, to the parents of William “Babe” and Alta (Evans) Smith in the small town of Wray, Colorado. After Craig graduated from Middle Park High School in Granby, Colorado, he went on to study engineering at Colorado University.

While attending Colorado University, Craig met Jacalyn Marie Berndt from Salida, Colorado, who was in the nursing program at Colorado University. On June 13, 1966, Craig and Jacalyn married and had two children, Shelley and Shawn. Craig had many careers during his and Jacalyn’s 41 years together, but he always returned to his passion for construction and project management. Craig’s hobbies included racing cars, sports, and woodworking.

After Jacalyn’s death in 2007, Craig found a new career and passion helping others affected by severe weather. It was in this career that took Craig to New York, where he met Pamela Fay (Myers) Conley, in 2014. Craig and Pamela married on March 2, 2015, and moved back to Thornton, Colorado.

Craig is preceded in death by his parents and wife Jacalyn. Craig is survived by his wife Pamela of 11 years, daughter Shelley Smith, son Shawn Smith, grandson Michael Smith, brother Curtis Smith, and numerous other aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

The Smith family would like to say a special thank you to Dr. Laura O. Coster from the Western Infectious Disease Consultants along with their staff, Dr. David Jackson from Good Samaritan Hospital in Lafayette, along with their staff, One Medical Team in Arvada, Dr. Passo and Nurse Brooke Williams at Lutheran Collier Hospice Hospital, along with all of the staff, who took amazing care of Craig and all the family and friends of Craig.

A Celebration of Craig’s life will be held at Olinger Highland Funeral Home, 10201 Grant Street, Thornton, CO on April 26, 2026 (which would have been Craig’s 80th birthday) with services starting at 12:00 and reception immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to Lutheran Collier Hospice Hospital in Wheat Ridge are appreciated.