Christopher Hastings Smith, born June 11, 1969, in West Lafayette, Indiana, passed away at home in Los Alamos, New Mexico Jan. 20, 2025. He was a devoted husband, father and community member whose life was marked by dedication and love.
Chris dedicated his career to working as a Computer Systems Professional for ICE-CS-M365 at Los Alamos National Laboratory, where he worked for 25 years. He was known for his dependability, expertise, and commitment to excellence. His colleagues admired his work ethic and dedication to every project he undertook.
Outside of work, Chris was a passionate gymnastics coach and a dedicated martial artist. He practiced Taekwondo for most of his life and taught Kung Fu for the last six years. His students admired his teaching style and dedication, and he was always willing to go the extra mile to help them succeed.
Chris was also deeply involved in his community. He practiced Falun Gong, embracing the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance. His dedication to these values was evident in all aspects of his life.
He played a significant role in bringing Shen Yun to Albuquerque, New Mexico, handling everything from marketing and commercials to ticket sales and security. His efforts helped share this cultural experience with the community.
Chris will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his work, and his community. His legacy of love, hard work, and compassion will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Chris is survived by his beloved wife, Natalie Kay Smith; his cherished daughter, Emily Elizabeth Smith; and his mother, Elaine Marker Smith of Albuquerque, New Mexico. He is also survived by his sister, Angie Smith Morris, and her husband, Mark Wayne Morris, along with their children, Jackson, Madeline, and Graham; and his brother, Timothy Robert Smith, and his wife, Michelle Rae Longmire. Chris’s in-laws, MaryAnne and Troy Allen Nothwang of Santa Fe, New Mexico, and his brother-in-law, Neil Allen Nothwang, and his wife, Keelin Nothwang, along with their children, Úna and Gus, were also an important part of his family.
Chris’s father, Hastings Alexander Smith Jr., preceded him in death.
To leave stories and encouragement for the family, please visit www.riverafamilyfuneralhome.com.
The Smith family will gather for visitation time on Friday, January 31, 2025, first for family at 11 am and extended to the public at 11:30 am. Burial will follow immediately at Guaje Pines Cemetery in Los Alamos at 1 pm. A larger Celebration of Life will be held at Fuller Lodge of Los Alamos on Saturday February 22, 2025, from 9:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.