Christopher Smith
December 30, 2024
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Christopher Wallace Smith, beloved brother, cousin, nephew, friend, and colleague, who died on December 30, 2024, at the age of 58. Chris was born on August 13, 1966, in New Haven, Connecticut, the oldest son of John and Leanne (Beukelman) Smith.
A lifelong Connecticut resident, Chris attended New Haven Public Schools for elementary and middle school, before continuing his education at Hopkins School, where his father taught English. There, he stood out not only for his schoolwork but also as an exceptional athlete and teammate, playing on the school's football and basketball teams. His passion for sports led him to Southern Connecticut State University, where he studied special education, and continued to excel as a key receiver and punter on the football team. To this day, he remains in the Owls' record books with the program's fourth most career punting yards and fifth most career punts.
Chris's professional career was one dedicated to nurturing the minds and hearts of young people. In his early years, he worked at the YMCA Camp of Maine and the Yale Child Study Center, and then devoted 35 years of his life to the ACES High School Program, where he worked tirelessly to guide students to reach their full potential. Chris was a cornerstone of Mill Road School, known for his warm heart, quick wit, and deep commitment to those around him. He was more than an educator-Chris was a mentor, a role model, and a steady presence in the lives of countless students and colleagues who will remember his wisdom, his encouragement, and his unwavering belief in the power of personalized, therapeutic education to transform lives.
Outside of his professional life, Chris was deeply involved in the New England darts community, where he was affectionately known as "Smitty." He was more than just a player; he was a symbol of what darts represents for so many. As captain of his team and vice president of the New Haven Dart League, he was a revered leader and organizer. He helped grow and connect leagues, coordinated tournaments, and worked endlessly to strengthen the bonds among players, both new and seasoned. His talent on the dartboard was legendary, winning numerous tournaments, seasons, and championships. But more than his talent, Smitty embodied the spirit of camaraderie, sportsmanship, and genuine friendship that darts creates, and his presence will be deeply missed by the close community that he so lovingly nurtured.
Chris's friends and family will forever cherish the warmth of his spirit, the joy of his laughter, and the kindness he shared so freely with all. He leaves behind hundreds of best friends and a world forever changed by his presence. In his memory, they will throw darts, drink beer, befriend dogs, enjoy live music, cheer on New England and UConn sports teams, and remind each other of how much he meant to them.
Chris was predeceased by both of his parents. He is survived by his brother, Jeffrey Smith of Walpole, ME; his aunts, Priscilla Smith of Walpole, ME and Bonnie Wynne of Newcastle, ME; his nine first cousins and their families; and an enormous community of devoted friends who loved him like family. Opportunities to celebrate Chris's life will be held in both Maine and Connecticut at dates to be announced. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the ACES Education Foundation (https://www.aces.org/our-agency/education-foundation/donations) in Chris's memory.

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Published by The New Haven Register on Jan. 6, 2025.