Chris Smith was born in Oxford, Ohio on March 16, 1975 to Jesse and Carole Peak Smith. A 1993 graduate of Franklin County High School, Chris went on to earn a BS in Business Management from IU East. Chris married Holly Simmermeyer on September 11, 1999 and the couple had two daughters, Laney and Maddy. Chris loved to watch his daughters play sports. Laney, a sophomore at Franklin County High School plays volleyball. Maddy, in 6th grade at St. Michael School, plays basketball and also plays softball for the Brookville Lady Lakers Chris lived in Brookville most of his life and grew up with his parents and sister, Stephanie (King).
After graduation from IU East, he began working in Sales at B & F Plastics, Inc. in Richmond, Indiana. He eventually moved to VP of Sales and became a partner in the business. Chris remained at B & F for 21 years where he mentored many fellow employees and helped make it the successful company it is today. B & F helped him give back to the community, allowing him to donate items such as a dance floor to St. Michael for the 8th grade dance and plastic sheets to the American Legion and VFW for butchering.
Chris and several close friends created Thunder Valley Pyrotechnics. They created beautiful fireworks displays annually at Canoefest and at other shows in the area. He was very community-minded, supporting local business whenever possible. He was a member of St. Michael Church and the Franklin County Conservation Club. He was very generous of his time, talent and treasure.
Described as lighthearted and laid-back, Chris was deeply devoted to family and friends. He enjoyed spending time with them, boating, shooting trap and traveling. Chris passed away on September 20, 2020. As a legacy to him, his wife has established the Chris Smith Memorial Scholarship Endowment. The fund will provide scholarships to students graduating from Franklin County High School. Primary consideration will be given to students pursuing a degree in a Business-related field. Secondary consideration will be given to students attending IU East.