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Ariel Chriss Obituary
Funeral: 11 a.m. Monday at Polytechnic United Methodist Church, 1310 S. Collard St., Fort Worth, the Rev. Rick L. Hawkins officiating. Interment: Laurel Land Memorial Memorial Park.
Memorials: In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Angels of Mercy, 2700 Village Creek Road, Fort Worth, Texas 76105. This non-profit agency was founded by Ariel to assist cancer patients.
Ariel was born to Alice Thomas Hunter and Garrett S. Hunter Sr. on Jan. 23, 1957, in Franklin, La. She attended schools in Morgan City, La., and graduated from Southern University in Baton Rouge, La. She earned masters of art from the University of Texas at Arlington and University of Texas at Austin.
In 1982, Ariel moved to Fort Worth. She worked for the United Way of Tarrant County and Dallas Independent School District as a trainer for several years prior to moving to the Tarrant County College system in 1996 as director of continuing education. She initiated African American Professionals Conference and Aspiring Women's Conference. She also served on the Senior Citizens Services of Greater Tarrant County board of directors and coordinated College for Kids.
In September 1989, Ariel married Alcee Chriss Jr. The family attended Morningside United Methodist Church in Fort Worth. As their faith became stronger, her husband entered the ministry with Ariel as a strong partner. When Alcee was named pastor of Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church in Waco, Ariel followed him there as the first lady of the church.
Then in September 2003, Ariel and Alcee established Aletheia Temple Church in southeast Fort Worth. Ariel followed her husband into the ministry as the church's associate pastor. Ariel's ministry included Angels of Mercy, a non-profit organization that offers assistance to families affected by cancer. In addition to being the first lady of Aletheia, Ariel participated in many of the church's ministries with her time and commitment. There was always enough time to offer a prayer of encouragement to anyone who needed it.
Ariel was preceded in death by her father, Garrett S. Hunter Sr., and grandmother, Ethel Thomas.
Ariel was well beloved by family and friends. She was known as Nanny "Aunt" Yaya to Scottie, Alea, Chaunci, Neal, Crystelle, Tonya, Angela, Terry, Ben, Garrett, Leah, Britney and the children of Aletheia Temple.
Survivors: Left to mourn Ariel Hunter-Chriss' passing are her husband and confidant, the Rev. Alcee Chriss Jr.; her children, Alcee Chriss III and Aaron Chriss; mother, Mrs. Alice Thomas Washington and her husband, Abraham Washington; brothers, Cornelius "Bill" Carr (Charlene) and Garrett S. Hunter Jr.; sisters, Ethel Mitchell, Dr. Carolyn Yusuf (James Session), Evelyn Washington and Marilyn Sturns (Louis); godchildren, Crystelle Carr, Alea Mitchell and Bobby Thigpen; father-in-law, Alcee Chriss Sr.; brother-in-law, Kenneth Chriss; special friends, Arturo Pena; and a host of family, extended family, church family, friends and co-workers who will miss her dearly.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ariel Chriss
Gregory Bell
June 24, 2009
To the Chriss family I worked for TCC for 10 years and was so saddened to here of the passing of Ariel,she and I spoke on many occasions and she was truly a woman who lived by the word of god she loved her husband and children greatly and they where her top priority behind god she was a wonderful woman and human being and I am so blessed to have known her if for just a little while.
Darryl Tucker
May 21, 2009
Dean Chriss you was a wonderful boss so soft spoken and very caring. You gave me my first break years ago thank you.You always supported me, I learned alot from you that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Memories never leave nor do we, we are forever I LOVE YOU MY SISTER.
Carolyn Elder
May 19, 2009
I just met this angel last year. She hired me for the college for kids.The minute we met I knew she was a special angel from God we shared somethings and became very close. I got the news last night my spirit has been broken, but I know the Lord will make away for the Chriss family. It won't be the same for me this year but I must keep pressing on because I know that's what Ariel would want us to. We will keep the chilren in good hands. God please give her husband and children strength. Faithful is our God! She will forever live in our hearts.
May 17, 2009
TO THE CHRISS FAMILY OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU. WE GRIEVE WITH YOU. GOD BLESS YOU.
SAM OWENS AND FAMILY
Nanette Smith
May 14, 2009
To my sincere surprise,shock & dismay; I will miss her greatly. Mrs. Chriss provided opportunities that encouraged growth and excellence. Children always seemed to be at the top of her list. To the boys- Your mom planted seeds that will grow in your hearts forever. ALWAYS remember her teachings. ~Nanette Smith Theatre, College 4 Kids
Floreen Henry
May 13, 2009
Sweet Ariel - such a fitting name for an angel - and an angel to work with at TCC. She will be missed! May she rest in peace.
Lisa Bethune
May 13, 2009
Our prayers are with the Chriss family during your lost. Aaron if you need anything or just someone to talk to you can contact Crys-chelle Tate
Kerry Reaux Howard
May 13, 2009
To Ariel's Family,
Our parting is not the end of our relationship, only an interruption. Our loved ones are experiencing the joy of Christ's presence in a place so wonderful that Christ called it "PARADISE". Imagine that.
May you find encouragement in God's promises and comfort in His presence.
Latoya Polk
May 12, 2009
Mrs. Ariel Chriss, was sent here to do all that God had set for her to do, she touched my life in the short three weeks that i worked for TCC. I never met anyone like her, She has such a strong, peaceful presence, i could not believe she is no longer here. But she is in a far better place. I wish peace and joy to her family and loved ones, praise God through it.
Shannon Lea Thomas
May 12, 2009
I want to take the opportunity thank every one who showed to offer their condolences and prove how much of a beautiful angel Ariel really was.
Thank you for coming to share in the celebration of her life.
And to my family, I miss you All and hope to see you again real soon.
Jill Taylor Gordon
May 12, 2009
'Well done good and faithful servant!" Matthew 25;21 Ariel has gone home. One day we will see each other again and our mourning will turn to joy.
Marta Davis
May 11, 2009
Family of Ariel,
Faith is what carries us through the tough and bad and sad times. She was a vibrant and joyful person who will always be remembered this way to me. My condolences to you and your family. From a friend at William James Middle.
May 11, 2009
To The Family of Ariel,
May God be with you. Be encouraged and know that God will carry you through. These are words from experience. Her loving smile and listening ear will always be remember.
God Bless
Marie Bell
Gwen Gray
May 11, 2009
From Dunbar High School Fort Worth, Parent Engagement Department:
It was such a pleasure to work with Ariel. She shared her love for the youth in the Stop Six community freely, and had a desire for each one to achieve academic success. We will sorely miss her. Please accept our deepest sympathies.
Robin Rhyand
May 11, 2009
When I heard the news of Ariel's passing, I was numb. She is such a beautiful person and it is so easy to be with her and see the light of Christ in her face. She speaks, listens and smiles to all and judges none. Ariel is intelligent, elegant and yet down to earth. Oh the wonderful sense of humor she possessed was contagious. I will never forget her Lena Horne impersonation for the TCC Senior Bash, or her maternal pride over her talented two sons. Ariel is now pain free and thanks be to God, life is not taken away, but born again through Christ. My prayers are with the Hunter, Chriss, and Washington families and the hundreds of people that mourn her loss. May Light Perpetual shine upon her and upon all the souls of the Faithful departed in the name of Christ. Amen. Ariel was original and unforgetable.
James Vela
May 11, 2009
A Life was taken away too soon but God needed someone to guide his people into the light for all eternity. My deepest thoughts and prayers are with the family. May you rest in peace and you wil be our Angel thru life as we continue on this earth.
Annie Carr
May 11, 2009
To the Hunter - Washington and Chriss Family,
On behalf of Patterson, LA and the Hattie A. Watts Family we offer our deepest sympathy to all of the family and will keep you in our prayers.
Annie B. Carr - Stockbridge, GA
Henry (June) Carr - Patterson, LA
Phyllis Brazile - St. Rose, LA
Bea Livingston
May 11, 2009
Alcee you and your family are in my prayers. I'm sorry I couldn't make the trip.
Love Bea
Sylvia Martinez
May 11, 2009
To the family,
May the peace of the Lord be with you during this time of sorrow. Ariel fulfilled her purpose on this earth so triumphantly and courageously; she was a great role model.
"The Lord will give strength unto his people; the Lord will bless his people with peace."
Psalm 29:11
With deepest sympathy,
Sylvia Martinez
Asst. Dean Continuing Ed.(Retired)
TCC NW Campus
Denise,Deborah,Edward Stewart
May 10, 2009
We are so sorry for your loss.
Stephanie Smith Carbin
May 10, 2009
I thank God, for being blessed to have Ariel cross my path in life. As a little girl I really looked up to her. I will truly miss her laughter. She was a beautiful person inside and out.
Brandi Jade Thomas Moore
May 10, 2009
I still remember when I was a little girl, I used to look at Ariel and think, "wow...she's sssooo pretty...." I think this was so because she had such a beautiful spirit. I will miss her, and although I will not be there with my family to celebrate Ariel's life tomorrow, my thoughts and prayers are with you all always.
I am so blessed to have known her, and to have come from such a beautiful family.
I love y'all.
--bj
Carlos O'Brien
May 10, 2009
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Brenda Perkins
May 9, 2009
Words cannot express my love for Areil and her family. My love and prayers are with you in your time of need. she will be missed. I have a littel poem I would like to leave you with.
She was different
She was different, she was special, unique in a thousand ways. She was giving, she was loving, and we'll miss her all our days. There are those who covet fame and court it like a beau. There are those who covet wealth, kneeling in its glow. But she was different. There are some who strive for praise; they yearn for world applause. There are some who chase sweet comfort as their one and only cause. But she was different. There are some who race for power, sure it will bring them joy, some who long for pleasure, seeing time an endless joy. But she was different, her legacy was her family, she was giving for her love. Her passion was her family, a gift from above. Because you see she was different, she was special, unique in a thousand ways. She was loving, she was giving and we'll miss her all our days.
We love you!!! Perkins family
SHE WAS DIFFERENT
Larry&Carol Jones
May 9, 2009
With warm condolences
Georgia Armstrong
May 9, 2009
May the peace of God and the comfort of the Holy Spirit see you through this difficult time.
"THE JOY OF THE LORD IS YOUR STRENGTH"
Shannon Lea Thomas
May 9, 2009
Ariel was a beautiful person with a soul that outshined her outter beauty. Only thing that soothes my selfish grief is knowing that it was God's will for his angel to ascend.
I can not wait to reach Fort Worth to grieve with my family.
Charlotte Parker
May 9, 2009
My heartfelt condolences to the Chriss family… I am so very sorry for your loss of the beautiful gift from God that Ariel was. She was my mentor whom I admired for her work and accomplishments as well as my friend who held me up in prayer in times that I have struggled.
She was loved and respected by many and will be sorely missed by us all.
Bobbie Edmonds
May 9, 2009
I am deeply sadden about the loss of Ariel, but I know that she is in a heavenly place now. Her spirit and sweet memories will live on forever. She demonstrated her strength and love as wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend and servant of God every day. Ariel touched lives and made us better. I was touched.
I observed her impeccable love as a mother for her sons, Alcee, III and Aaron on several occasions. She always looked for academic opportunities for them and embraced the opinion of her husband, Rev. Chriss. She allowed Alcee, III and Aaron to experience new things and display their musical talents. The Rally for Education, Inc.'s Board of Directors and Youth will always remember how she would accompany Alcee, III when he played the piano before the crowd of anxious young people at Dunbar Six Grade Technology Center each summer. We will miss her this June. Thank you Ariel for being a part of our lives and sharing your family in so many ways. To Rev. Chriss, Alcee, III and Aaron; and the Hunter-Chriss, Washington Families, God be with you.
Alcee, III and Aaron call me if you need me. No one can take the place of your beloved mother, but we can be helping hands to embrace you.
With Love,
Bobbie Edmonds, Esquire
Faye Thomas
May 9, 2009
My heartfelt sympathy and prayers goes out to my family and this difficult time. Areil was a beautiful and giving person and will be missed by all that knew her.
I love you all so much, Faye
Lois Cooper
May 9, 2009
Family and Friends of the late Ariel Chriss,
God bless you and keep you in His loving care now and the days ahead.
My Deepest Sympathy,
Lois Cooper
Briscoe Elem. School (Retired)
Bob MCCoy
May 9, 2009
I will miss you very much. I am honored to have been blessed to know you.
Bro.Jimmy And Prophetess Alice Brown
May 9, 2009
And so she did not go along into the "Valley That's Unknown" She gently took Death by the Hand And journeyed to "The Promised Land" And there, with steps so light and gay. She polishes the sun by day And light the stars that shine at night And keeps the moonbeams silvery bright For Mothers really never die They just "Keep House Up In The Sky" And in Heavenly Home Above They wait to "Welcome those they love. We love you all. To the Chriss ,Washington And Hunter and the entire family . We are praying for you in your difficult time. May God give Comfort you all and give you Peace
Makala Denefield
May 8, 2009
Ms. Ariel extended herself to me while in my battle with breast cancer and her sincere kindness and thoughfulness will always be appreciated. I consider it a blessing to have know such a caring person. My prayers are with your family!
Makala
neal carr
May 8, 2009
nanny i will miss you. i love you and i know that you are in heaven. God bless.
-neal
Ollie Washington-Watson
May 8, 2009
It is with profound sympathy that I greet you in the name of Jesus. I am Ollie Marie Washington Watson, of the Bowman Street Washingtons. I had the honor of teaching Ariel in the second grade. It was a most. gratifying experience. Mr. Hunter was my science teacher.
May God bless you Mrs. Alice Matilda and family.
Mervil Johnson
May 8, 2009
I'm sure I express the sentiment of many who are numb with grief by the departure of such a dear friend. It's been over 25 years since I met Ariel. We participated in the NCTCOG Urban Fellowship Program to pursue our Master's degrees, and I remember meeting her for the first time and marveling at what a beautiful woman she was. As our friendship developed over the years, the more I was taken by her extraordinary inner beauty as well. Our paths continued to cross as I also served as Asst Dean for Continuing Education at TCC prior to Ariel's arrival there. She later recruited me as one of her Spanish instructors, and it was such a joy to work under her efficient and professional leadership. But most importantly, just a few months ago, she shared such strong words of encouragement with me during my illness that I was left speechless and in tears by the power of her words. I am so thankful that I was able to later tell her how much that meant to me. Our hearts are heavy, yet we are all so incredibly blessed to have known Ariel Hunter-Chriss, even though we wish that it could have lasted for many more years. To her husband and sons and all her extended family and many friends, May God hold you in his comforting embrace during this challenging time.
RONNY RUFFIN
May 8, 2009
To the family, My prayers are with you all, Just remember earth has no sorrow that heaven can not heal! I Love you all, RONALD "RONNY" RUFFIN,
Mary Maze Verdun
May 8, 2009
I am sorry for your loss. Ariel was a classmate of mine at Morgan City High School. She was a great person to know. My prayers are with you and your family.
May 8, 2009
To Mrs. Alice Mathilda, Elthel Cornelis.Billy Boy and Charline you know we go way back to the Teas at Ms. Ethel's house and on Sixth Street. Charlene in nursing. My prayers are with you. God never fails. I recently loss my husband of 45 years on March 15. Ollie, Onetter, Emile, Mary,Carol Sue and Don all send their love.
Love,
Ann Washington Poole
Martha (Dardar) Young
May 8, 2009
Hunter-Chriss Family
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. I went to Sumpter Wms., with Ethel... Taught by Mr. Hunter.
Sandra Marshall & ATC C/Y Bible Study Class
May 8, 2009
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
mary rogers
May 8, 2009
may god bless and keep you. the emile and marybell family from morgan city la
Tiffany Fuller
May 8, 2009
To the Entire Bereaved Family of Mrs. Ariel Hunter Chriss
Words simply cannot express the sadness I feel with Cousin Ariel's passing. Though we do not share the same genes, I have come to love Mrs. Alice (Aunt Alice) Washington's family as though they are my own. It is my prayer that God brings comfort to "my" family at this difficult time. Cousin Ariel lived a fulfulling life, she loved her family dearly, and she was definitely a PROVERBS 31 woman. My spirit has been enriched simply by knowing a woman of her character, and she will be missed! Rev. Chriss, Trey and Aaron, continue to look to the Hills.
In Christ,
Cousin Tiffany
antonio jones
May 8, 2009
To Tonya and the Chriss family and friends. I am sorry for your loss. She was a beautiful person; inside and out
Derek C. Brown
May 8, 2009
Alcee III.
During this difficult time please remember, "In every thing give thanks; for this is the will of God in Jesus Christ concerning you" (1 Thessalonians 5:18). The prayers from your NAACP ACT-SO family are with you and yours always...
Cecilia Loupe- Cardinale
May 8, 2009
Hunter-Chriss Family
I went to high school with Ariel,we were in band together. I am so sorry for your loss. Sadly we never kept in touch, but by all the wonderful condolences everyone has left she was a great lady and loved the Lord. Your family is in my prayers.
Chancellor Jenkins
May 8, 2009
To the entire Chriss family my thoughts and prayers are with you, but espically to Alcee Chris III and Aaron I love both of you; and if you ever need anything im here.
Love Jenkins
Karen Johnson
May 8, 2009
Dear family I grew up with Ariel and her family in Morgan City, La. and consider her a family member even though I have not seen her recently. My younger sister and Ariel have always been close. I am saddened by her death, but I know she loved the Lord and she is now at peace with Him and all those family members who have gone before. I am grateful for having known her on this earth and believe that the world is a "little less bright and beautiful" by her passing. I am prayerful that Ariel's mom, husband, children and siblings will find strength and comfort during this difficult time. God bless Karen E. Johnson, M.D.
Debbie M. Johnson
May 8, 2009
My heart is overwhelmed with grief. I have lost a very special person in my life. Someone who, simply by knowing her, made my life the better.
All of Ariel's pain and grief is over
Every restless tossing passed;
She is now at peace forever,
safely home in Heaven!
When we are called home to be with God, she will be there to greet and welcome us home.
With all my love and heartfelt sympathy,
I remain,
Debbie M. Johnson
Sister and Friend Forever
Sajata Hale-Williams
May 8, 2009
To Ariel's Beloved Family:
Many of us don't know anyone who NEVER complains, but for me and so many others, that was Ariel. I had the pleasure of working with her on the boards of the AA Professionals and Aspiring Women conferences and her heart for Christ, her family, TCC and those of us on the committee was so genuine. Ariel was a light to all of us. She loved DEEPLY and taught me that the potential to touch other people's lives was more important than the paper, profit or petty details associated with planning events. I remember her sharing her son's music with us - such a gift, she was SO proud of him. Ariel did so much, for so many, for so long and I will miss her zest for life, her laughter and her sweet spirit. May the Lord comfort and keep you through the prayers of His people, for years to come.
nathaniel soders
May 8, 2009
To Bro.Preacher and Family heart felt condolences and constant prayer forever your extended family Nate Soders and family
monte elliott
May 8, 2009
what a beatiful testimony of life Ariel leaves. Pastor C and family, thanks for all that the entire family contributed to the success of the NAACP ACT-SO program. Our prayers are with you now. May God's peace be your comfort. We will keep all of you lifted up in prayer.
Rita Short
May 8, 2009
So sorry to hear of your loss. I didn’t know Ariel well but always greatly admired her. As a fellow employee at TCC her locker was next to mine at the gym and I had many opportunities to speak to her in that relaxed environment. I wasn't anyone important, but she always made me feel as though I was. She was elegant and beautiful, yet down to earth and an integral part of the TCC family. She will be missed. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Debra Carter McKenzie
May 8, 2009
Hunter-Chriss Family
Ariel was not only a coworker for 13 years at TCC that we shared many moments of work, but she became my angel of support when I went through losses in my family. She was my sister-in-Christ that encourage, prayed, and always had a word to uplift me. She will be absolutely missed in my life because she became so much more than a friend. I will never forget her. "As holy people...be sympathetic, kind, humble, gentle, and patient." Col 3:12, this verse describes Ariel to me. I am praying for the Hunter-Chriss family for strength during this time.
Beatrice Nealy
May 8, 2009
Alcee and Family,
May God comfort you in the loss of Ariel. She was such a wonderful woman, friend, and mentor. Her organization helped so may women in need. God has picked a beautiful flower for his own.
May he comfort and strengthen you during this time and always.
Bea, Marian and Chauncey Nealy Jr.
May 8, 2009
Pastor Chriss and Family we are sadden to hear about the loss of such a sweet, compassionate person. We will never forget the good times we spent at Morningside Methodist Church. Our family will continue to keep your family in our prayers during this most difficult time. God has chosen another gifted angel.
Clyde and Pauline Wallace
and Family
Ed Ackermann
May 8, 2009
To Alcee Chriss III and family:
Please know that your fellow members of the Fort Worth Chapter of the American Guild of Organists grieve with you over your loss. We offer our sympathy and prayers as you move through this sorrowful period in your lives.
Sammy Moore
May 8, 2009
"To Ariel Family" My heart and prayer goes out to you. Ariel is truly loved and will be missed here at TCC. May God drape you in his loving arm, keep you strong and guide you throughout your bereavement.
May 8, 2009
The angel Ariel Chriss has assisted many. She is one who will be missed by many. I spoke to her for 10 minutes. She changed me for the better, May God be with the family. She is with God. Betty Riley, Fort Worth,TX
Juanita Burdette
May 8, 2009
Alcee,
My prayers and thoughts are with you, the boys, and extended family. May God be with you and comfort you in this time of need.
Rev. W.L.D. & Valerie Campbell & family
May 8, 2009
Pastor Criss & Family:
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. May God continue to bless and keep you during this time of transition. Ariel was a great person to work with during College For Kids. She would put her heart and soul into everything she did. We will miss her.
Clarence & Martha Dozier
May 8, 2009
To Pastor Chriss & Family:
Be not dismayed whatever be tide, God will take care of you. My prayers are with you and your family. Ariel was a true friend of mine. She was my mentor, my boss and also a child of God. We shared many happy moments in the Office of Continuing Education. I will cherish those memories. May the Lord continue to comfort you in your hour of bereavement.
Sundra Davis
May 8, 2009
To Ariel's family...we are so very sad to hear of her passing. In a very short span of time, Ariel became a vital part of ACT-SO. Like everything, she jumped in with sleeves rolled-up and ready to contribute. She will be remembered as a Grand Lady! Alcee, your ACT-SO family is praying for all of you. S.Davis
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