Christine "Chris" Fay Smith

Words can hardly do justice to the kind, caring, brilliant light that was Chris, or "Chrissy" to most. She was blessed with both “beauty and brains”, but she will be remembered most for the compassionate way she treated everyone. You couldn't help but be wrapped in the warmth of her glow — those impossibly bright blue eyes, that radiant smile. Her giggle was infectious, especially after a glass of wine. And she always led with love, putting everyone else's needs above her own.

Chris was born in Colorado Springs but spent part of her childhood in San Francisco; she kept fond memories of the Bay Area all her life. She and Ron were married in 1968 and settled in Lakewood, CO, where they raised three children: Thomas, Jennifer, and Chad, forming a tight-knit family built on love.

In those early days, Ron was a successful entrepreneur, owning an electrical contracting firm, while Chris raised the kids with her gentle, caring — but firm when required — style. They encouraged their children to chase their dreams and supported them, never missing a concert, baseball game, or school activity. You name it, they were there. Chris was the consummate entertainer with a knack for making everyone feel welcome. Her kids called her Lady Holiday, because her table settings were legendary — and later the envy of everyone on Instagram.

Once the kids were older, Chris returned to college to earn her Bachelor of Science in Accounting, followed by a Master's in Tax from DU. She and Ron juggled a thriving business and countless school activities while maintaining a household, and Ron made sure Chris had the space to study her heart out and re-enter the workforce.

Chris rose through the ranks of the IRS, teaching across the country and helping to shape tax policy. Her coworkers were quick to point out that "Chris was the smartest person in any room." In her final years there, she was a bit of a tax warrior, closing corporate loopholes and making big companies pay their fair share.

Chris’ heart seemed to grow beyond what might be thought possible when she became “Gram.” She spent endless hours with her two girls, sewing the most beautiful holiday dresses and costumes and creating a playroom designed for them to paint, read, laugh, and simply enjoy time together. Chris was a role model to all, but the indelible impression she left on the girls’ hearts is irreplaceable and will stay with them for a lifetime.

Never one to sit still, she filled her retirement years with pilates, power sculpt, book club, travel near and far — France, Italy, Asia, Disney, and so many more — and her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Chrissy's greatest legacy is her family. She is survived by her husband, Ron; her three children and their spouses, Brian, Jasmine, and CJ; her grandchildren, Allison and Megan, and their husbands, Zac and Joel; and her great-grandchildren, Dean and Blake. Chris loved and encouraged them all unconditionally, and in return, she was the center of their universe. Chris will be deeply missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully asks that you consider a donation in her name to a local Alzheimer's charity of your choice.

A Funeral Service will be held at Olinger Crown Hill Mortuary on September 19, 2026 at 11am with a reception to follow. She will be laid to rest in a private service.