Christy Myers Smith, a loving wife, dedicated mother, and selfless friend, passed away unexpectedly on August 14, 2019 at the age of 44.
Christy was born on April 30, 1975 in Phoenix, Arizona to Ed and Karen Myers. She was the oldest of five siblings. She is survived by her husband, Brent, and her two children Jason and Hailey as well as by her mother, Karen, her brothers, Jimmy (Marcela), Clayton (Valerie), and Scott (Jennie), and her sister Bonnie Giles (Jason). Preceding her in death was her father, Ed, and Grandfather, Clayton, with whom she had an exceptional bond.
Christy Myers met Brent Smith, at an ASU singles dance the summer of 1993. They dated for 4 years and were ultimately sealed in the Mesa Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on June 14, 1997. They were blessed with two remarkable children, Jason and Hailey, who quickly became their best friends. She was fiercely devoted to helping them become their best selves and was their greatest advocate. She helped them focus on the teachings of Jesus Christ, and emphasized charity, service, and work, all of which she authentically exemplified herself.
Christy adored her family and genuinely cherished her time with them. They enjoyed any day on the lake, riding motorcycles and ATVs, hunting, and spending time at home. She also had a passion for gardening and gourmet cooking. She, however, found her real joy at their cabin. It became her quiet retreat from her busy life in the city. She was never happier than when she was working at the cabin, creating her heaven on earth.
Christy was no stranger to excellence. After graduating Cum Laude from Arizona State University with a Bachelor’s Degree of Arts in Political Science, Christy, once again, graduated Cum Laude with a law degree from the J. Reuben Clark Law School at Brigham Young University.
Christy was an equally talented and capable attorney. Her professional pursuits took her from an associate at a large, international law firm, to General Counsel for the Office of Governor Jan Brewer, to Vice President and COO of various corporations in advertising, real estate development, and retail.
Christy was a mentor and a leader. Despite the high demands of her professional life, Christy still found time and opportunities to be a mentor. It was not uncommon to find Christy at lunch advising an aspiring student or attorney on how to set goals and position themselves for success. While emails and requests of her time were building throughout the day, Christy would often stay up through the midnight hours for a neighbor or friend. As daunting as the tasks might have appeared, she never hesitated to help.
Christy loved to serve. For 3 years, Christy and Brent worked tirelessly together as Area Coordinators for the Pathway Program for Brigham Young University-Idaho. They advised and motivated youth and adults in their pursuit of a college education.
Funeral services will be on Friday, August 23, 2019 at 11 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located at 4225 N. 56th Street Phoenix, Arizona 85018.
My deepest condolences. Although Christy and I had just met, I felt a strong bond with her. May God bless all.
My heart goes out to Brent, Jason, and Hailey and all of Christy’s friends and family. She will be greatly missed for her genuine spirit of kindness, caring, and love! You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Christy always treated me like an equal and we enjoyed talking about fashion. She was an inspiration to ALL who came in contact with her. She will be sorely missed.
My dear friend, Christy, was an exceptional daughter of our Heavenly Father who epitomized Christ-like love and service. I will love and honor her memory all the rest of my days. My prayers go out to Brent, Jason, Hailey, and all who knew and loved her and were touched by her tremendous spirit and generous soul. God has called home one of His truly great ones.
At this moment, I feel such gratitude for the promises of eternity. So grateful that her light, love and pure charity will continue forever, and that she will continue to guide and bless her family.
Grateful that we have the opportunity to live again with her in our Heavenly Father’s kingdom. Prayers for His peace and comfort to be with all that mourn at this time .Love Jim and Mary Ann Adams
Very sorry to hear this news. Had a chance to work with Christy when she was serving in state government. I enjoyed the professional interaction I had with her. My sincerest condolences to her husband, children and extended family.
Brent, Jason, Hailey; Karen and family: May the Lord Jesus Christ, our Heavenly Father comfort you all with a supernatural peace and wrap His loving arms around you during this time of sorrow and forever. It was an honor and privilege to be Christy’s friend. Love, Sophia
Christy was an awesome woman, leader and friend. What a legacy she left behind. She will be missed.
Christy inspired us as newlyweds in Phoenix, in her service to others and the way she loved her children. When we felt young and naive (we were!) she reminded us that we had value and wisdom to share as well. We are so sorry to hear of her passing and grateful to have known her in the capacity we did, even for a short time.
We met Christy when she attended high school with our daughter. We would occasionally encounter her smiling service as she was helping others pursue their goals. We remember one encounter after not seeing her for several years. At a BYU Pathway meeting, she treated us like long lost family. She is an angel reunited with family.
Christy was a friend and advisor to us when we were new law grads, seeking a job during a terrible job market. she was always positive, insightful, and generous with her time. We enjoyed time with their family on the lake and during Church youth activities. She was brilliant in every way.
Most sincere condolences to Brent and their children. Grateful to have known Christy and to see her dedication to her Savior through service to others. The Biltmore Ward was a grateful recipient of her years of love and service. We pray for the Comforter to envelope her family and friends in love during this time of sorrow. Dar & Susan Davis
I was shocked and saddened when I was told about this happening. Christy was always very nice to me when we worked together. She always had a positive attitude, which I admired, and a can do attitude. She was quick to praise others on work well done. She will be missed and remembered for her kindness. My condolences to Brent, their children and family.
Christy was a wonderful mentor and friend. She was vivacious and so full of joy! I will never forget her. My deepest sympathies to Brent, Jason, and Hailey.
Christy helped me a lot during my years in Phoenix. She introduced me to two of my dear friends, loved me and prayed for me and believed in me. I believe she did this for hundreds of people. I’m grateful to her for giving her f herself so openly and to her family for sharing her so selflessly. I am so saddened by her sudden departure from this earth. I know we all now have a fierce advocate watching over us in heaven, but I still wish she were here on earth! My thoughts are prayers are with her family and friends. I wish I could join you for her service. Much love, Rachael
Christy was truly a remarkable human, we shared a love of dogs. She often visited my home to groom her little guy and we talked about her family. She was do proud if them. I will miss you my friend and I hope I can find some way to be of service to your family.
People always say they are sorry for your loss when someone dies. I think when people die young and suddenly we are sorry for the ones they left behind. Today I was told of a young woman who died with her best buddy a border terrier, a tragic thing, leaving two wonderful children and man amazing husband. The family is shattered. She had also left a mother with alzheimer’s that she had taken care of. I can’t help but think of all the wonder things she still had to do. She was well educated and loved her family always looking for the best for them. I am glad her train was filled with so many loving and caring people. I am glad I was a passenger on her train how ever short it was, and will always remember her kind and wonder nature. Christy, your train on earth has left for another journey I hope to one day meet with you once more.
I’m so sorry to heard for Brents Lost and I feel bad and sad to hear she is not here and I thank her alot to hire me at PRUITTS Furniture and she was nice to me and my wife that she use to go to my wife job to bring her mother to get their nails done. Anf I wish I could come by to show my respect to Brent and the family. And is their a place I can donate to the family.
I met Christy on Feb 14th 2019. She was the bubbly blonde that I connected with at first sight. I interviewed with her for the job I have now at Pruitt’s Fine Furniture. My interview lasted well over an hour and we talked about all that we had in common and how fun it was going to be working together at the new Pruitt’s store opening in Prescott Valley. My heart broke when I heard of her passing and the thought of her little ones growing up without their Mom. My prayers go out to Brent and Christy’s family and friends. God bless…..
We loved her sweet, cheerful, and grateful vibe. Always a joy to be around! We absolutely adore her daughter Hailey who ran cross country with our daughter Emily . Christy will be missed tremendously on this Earth. People like her are not a dime a dozen. She was special!!! We are heart broken.
About a month ago I met with Christy and Hailey and we worked on finding family names to do temple work for. I will always remember as we finished, Christy’s eyes filling with tears. She was visibly touched by the grandeur of the work of salvation for our ancestors. May she help us now from the other side! What a beautiful woman both physically and spiritually! She radiated happiness and light.
Christy worked my wife and I when we were called as Pathway Missionaries. Her example and friendship were instrumental in helping us to start our mission and it was evident that she was adored by everyone involved in the program. We are heartbroken to hear of her passing and our thoughts and prayers go out to Brent, Jason and Hailey.
Christy and Brent were the BEST!!!! We loved working with her in Pathway for several years. Her energy, positive attitude and love for others was felt the minute she walked in a room. She will be so missed here by so many, but will be a great blessing to others throughout the eternities. Our deepest Sympathy to Brent and the kids. May you feel comfort during the hard times through the spirit of our Savior. We love you guys.
Christy is my cousin and is a little older than I am. We were not particularly close, but I loved her and her family. We would often go camping together with her family while growing up and they were among the happiest memories of my childhood. She was always kind to me and she has accomplished more in her life than I had ever thought possible. She gave me hope for all good things.
We served with Brent and Christy when we first we called to the Pathway program. We loved their passion and knowledge and how they motivated all of us Pathway Missionaries in Arizona. We will always cherish them.
Brent-
It’s Elizabeth Menlove Thomas. I can’t stand this for you and your family. I booked tickets to come out to the funeral tomorrow. I really wanted to support you and pay tribute to sweet Christy. Right before we were to leave for the airport, I cancelled our flights. I just couldn’t do it. It’s too sad. I relate to your pain all too well. I’m so sorry for yours and Jasons and Hailey’s pain…
The only solace I find is in my favorite quote from the Preach My Gospel book “all that is UNFAIR in life will be made right through the atonement of Jesus Christ”.
Brent, there are no two ways about it. Christy’s passing is unfair. And I’m truly so sorry.
There WILL be good times ahead.
Love to you,
Elizabeth
Words fail to describe the hurt & depth of this loss of Christy. The Lord surely has a desperate need for her in Heaven. Or maybe her best help will be as a guardian angel for Brent, Jason & Hailey in tumultuous times to come. All things work together for good to those who love Him. Even this. Somehow. 😢.
I had the blessing of working with Christie and Brent when they served as missionaries for Pathway. Arizona is the second-highest enrolling area now, and it’s because of the Smiths. When they came on board in 2012, we had closed a couple of locations and enrollment was meager. They turned it all around. And I was amazed how Christie did it while also being a mom and a lawyer. She is amazing. I remember that she was always happy, and when she would disagree with you, it was always in a way that made you always want to choose her side. 😀 While I haven’t seen her in a few years, her influence was powerful and will be lasting.
Christy has a way of seeing potential in a person and then inspiring them to live up to it. She boosted my confidence as an awkward youth and made me feel like I was important, valued, and loved. She was a role model for me when I really needed it, serving as my Young Women’s leader despite her busy schedule. My heart breaks for Brent and her children. May you receive a constant flow of the Lord’s grace to sustain you until you are reunited again.
What a terrible loss this is! Christy was such an example of Christ like love and service. She and Brent we’re instrumental in mentoring us during our early years as Pathway missionaries. As busy as Christy was she always made you feel that you were the most important thing she was doing, as she patiently answered questions and guided you. Brent and Christy gave us an incredible foundation to serve a successful mission. It was truly a great joy to serve alongside them with their genuine love, mentoring, and their understanding of the integrity of the program and it’s importance. I’m so sad for all who are suffering this loss. We loved Christy!
Jason and Hailey, I knew your mama and dad when you were just babies. And all they ever talked about was how much they love you both! The distress and grief is unimaginable at the loss of your precious mama. She belongs here with you. It hurts your hearts. But know, if you hold really still, and listen really carefully, you will hear her say, “I love you.” And, Brent, I lift up you and your family always. ~Susan
Christy,
I’m sitting here in the chapel, awaiting the beginning of your funeral service. I cannot completely comprehend you are gone so soon, but that may be, in part, because you are still here. I believe Heaven will send you amongst Brent, Jason, and Hailey to attend to them throughout their mortal lives.
For my part, you made my life better. You were an inspiration to me and to many. I know you are in Paradise, so you have little need for my prayers; I’ll offer those for Brent, Jason, and Hailey.
Thank you for your great life, your cheerful smile, good humor, and listening ear. And thanks be to God for manifesting so much light to this world through you, good friend.
I am so sad to hear this news. Christy was such an example to me growing up. She was about the closest person to my age in our church group. I always admired her in so many ways. Then, years later, she met with me as I was starting Pathway. It was so wonderful to reconnect with her after all that time. I remember staying at your home way to late talking and catching up. She had a wonderful way of making everyone feel important. She will surely be missed. Your family will be in my prayers. I am so grateful to have known her.
Christy was the first person I met when I started my missionary discussions. She shared her love of the Savior and a testimony of the Atonement and eternal life. She was just simply the best friend anyone could have and I am grateful for the encouragement, support and love she showed me everyday. I know I have a guardian angel with me for the rest or my life. She was such a bright light in a sometimes dark world and I will never forget her impact on my life. I pray the Lord will comfort Brent, Jason and Hailey and bring them peace in time. Christy, you will be forever loved and missed. Until We Meet Again my sweet friend!! ❤
An extraordinary person with a smile that would light-up the Chapel or a corporate conference room – you knew that she really meant it, and that her happiness was real.
We will add our prayers to the many others, knowing that our Heavenly Father is holding Christy in his warm embrace, and that His angels are watching over Brent and the kids.
With so much love,
The DeMenna family.
Christy was one of those friends that only come along once in a lifetime and I am thankful and grateful to have had Christy in my life for many years. She encouraged, supported and loved me unconditionally as we walked this journey of life together and I learned so much from her and she was such an incredible example to me. I need to do better and I need to be a better person, I need to love deeper and I need to trust more. Christy, you will always be missed and you will always be loved. I don’t know what my life will look like without you in it, but I promise to do my best to more Christlike and more compassionate like you were to everyone you came in contact with. My best friend is gone but not forgotten. Until We Meet Again!!
Our thoughts and prayers for peace and strength for Brent, Jason & Hailey and all those who loved Christy so dearly. She selflessly gave so much to others leaving a legacy that will live on in the lives of so many. She truly was an example of Christlike love as she helped and loved those who were in need of being lifted up. We will fondly remember her always.
Hi Christy,
I enjoyed our friendship and discussions regarding family and life.
Because of your nature, my sentiments and similar are shared by the many who had the opportunity to connect with you in your all too short time with us.
You cheerfully inspired and uplifted many in a world with ever greater need of optimism and positivity.
Your love and light will live on Earth as inspiration through us, and I believe forever from your new place with Him.
May your family find peace on their new journey; and take solace knowing you left us swiftly, but you left the world a better place.
Steve
Christy… you will never leave my heart and thoughts. Wish we had more time together. Your friendship meant the world to me. I so admired what you stood for. You were beyond special. Until we meet again…..XO