Christopher Andrew Smith
“Smitty”
April 18, 1975 - July 28, 2026
Christopher Andrew Smith, a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend to many, died unexpectedly on July 28th, 2026, at the age of 51. He will be missed and always remembered for his laughter, charisma, creativity, patience, and selfless spirit. He may have left us too soon, but his meaningful impact is forever.
Born April 18th, 1975, to the loving arms of Joan and Clint Smith, Chris was diagnosed with a rare eye disorder that rendered him legally blind and would significantly shape how he lived his life. He was the younger brother of James, who treated him as any “normal” sighted kid, leading to some bloody lips and scrapes carrying the football in neighborhood super bowls or serving as a human vole shoveling a tunnel deep inside a snow fort. What could go wrong? Well, Chris didn’t waste time on this question, he dove for the end zone or into a snow cave with the zeal and commitment of someone you wanted to follow and who loved the adventures of life, especially when he did it with others. A proud Ridgewood High School Maroon and graduate of the class of 1993, he made the basketball and cross-country teams and also was a popular camper and well-respected counselor at William Lawrence Camp, where he proudly mentored young campers and led them with the same energy and excitement of that kid diving for the end zone. Quick with a joke and a hug, he made friends easily. He thrived on being present for all in his presence and allowed us to detach from our worries for the moment with his patient, thoughtful mind and witty, well-timed humor. But his favorite place was next to his guitar. This is where his worries and thoughts became joy to everyone who was fortunate to hear his talented, artful sound. He attended Brown University and started his own funk rock band “Smit-Haus,” starred as the main event at the Campus Dance in 1998, and produced many original songs resulting in an album titled “Basement Funk.” As lead singer and manager, he took Smit-Haus on the road that year and played at many small venues throughout the country. Although Smit Haus never became a career, Chris continued to write and perform music the rest of his life. Music was his favorite language and he spoke it well. He could untangle the complicated, expose the invisible, and set a feeling free through his songs. Listening to him play was inspirational and a really good time. Chris may have been legally blind, but he saw life and the people in it with a clear view, unobstructed by the superficial filters of the sighted. He listened and felt your presence, pain, and joy, accepting each person he met for who they were. And by seeing people this way, not at the surface, people didn’t see him as visually impaired, but rather, a deep thinking, loyal, insightful, and really fun friend, brother, and son to be around.
Thanks for teaching us all to see a little better, Chris.
Chris is survived by his mother Joan Smith and brother James Smith.
Arrangements are private, but we are very grateful to all who shared their love, support, and laughter remembering Chris. You have comforted us during this difficult transition. Thank you.
If desired, please send any donations to:
The Ridgewood High School Alumni Association
Ridgewood High School, Attn: Treasurer
627 East Ridgewood Ave.
Ridgewood, NJ 07450