It comes with great sadness that we announce our beloved mother and grandmother, Christen Smith of Exeter, Calif., passed away Saturday, Aug. 26, 2023 at home surrounded by her loving family. She was 62 years old. Christen was born May 16, 1961 in Exeter, Calif. to the late Elmer and Corene Keys. She was a seventh generation Exeter resident. For over 30 years, Christen grew citrus and sold produce, along with fresh orange juice at the San Luis Obispo County Farmers Market. She loved to go camping and fishing. There was no fish safe from Chris’ rod. In the last 10 years she had picked up elk hunting which she enjoyed very much.
Christen Smith
1961–2023
She was extremely funny and honest. She had no fear of telling someone exactly how she felt. She took great pride in telling everyone that she was the “Meanest Grandma in the West” even though she truly loved being a grandmother and great grandmother.
Left to cherish her memory are her children, daughters Susie Hendrix and Amber Smith, both of Exeter; sons Joshua Hendrix of Exeter and Matt Smith (Jessica) of Searcy, Ark.; eight grandchildren, Bryant Hendrix (Desiree) and their little ones Travis and Cole, Larry and Lizzy Williams, Landon Almanza, and Lawsyn Michalk, all of Exeter, and Eva, Elijah, and Noah Smith of Searcy, Ark.; one brother, David Keys; and longtime boyfriend, Richard Clevenger of Elderwood, Calif.
In addition to her parents, Christen was preceded in death by her husband, Lynn Smith.
Graveside Service will be at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 6 at Exeter District Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.evansmillerguinnchapel.com. Arrangements entrusted to Evans Miller Guinn Chapel in Exeter, Calif.
