Crystal Y. Smith

Her Story Crystal Yvette Smith (nee Bailey) was born on March 18, 1962, in Chester, Pennsylvania to the late Lawrence and Barbara Bailey. She departed this life on Thursday, February 8, 2024. She was educated in the Chester Upland School District and became a licensed cosmetologist thereafter. For the last 35 years, she was the store manager for PHL Gas, formerly B&S Deli in Chester, PA. Cris, the second of seven children, has always stepped in to be supportive in any way that she could. Falling under the rearing of some of the most powerful women, including her mother Honey and grandmothers Anna and Francis, she most certainly learned and understood the meaning of family. Because of their strong example, Cris had what she needed to be a hardworking and dedicated wonder woman. Her loving family started when she gave birth to Terrance (Terry), who she ensured had everything he wanted and needed. Later, Cris started dating her neighborhood friend, Earl, and together, they had another son, Earl (LP). Their childhood love led them to be married in 1992. She was “Mama,” and he was “Big Earl.” They loved, honored, and cherished one another, in sickness and in health in their union. While being an amazing wife and mother, she always took great care and had room for others. An exceptional daughter to both her parents, the best “little” big sister to her siblings, a great niece to her aunts and uncles, a second-mother figure to her protective nieces and nephews, a cherished cousin, a supportive friend, and an all-around decent person. She really was every woman! Cris enjoyed spending time with family and friends. You could find her sitting on the couch with her shoes off, a grandbaby nearby, a bag of snacks to share and that infectious, booming laugh. When she became a grandmother for the first time, she was so proud and excited. What a smile she had when she took little King around to meet everyone. And then came the other little lady in Cris’ family full of men, Miss Erin – her carbon copy. With more grands to follow, Cris took the role of mom mom and ran with it. Her grandchildren brought her the greatest of joy because she loved them and knew that they loved her. To many, she was the little, short lady from the gas station. The jokes about her height would make her laugh; however, you’d better not try her! A little powerhouse, standing tall at 5-foot, her presence could be felt in any room. She was respectful and she demanded the respect of others, no matter who they were. When situations occurred, she was the first person called. When she showed up, and she always did, she was ready and willing to do what needed to be done. Her shoulders were small, but mighty; a true leader possessing wisdom, compassion, integrity, fairness, and love. Above all, Cris, a child of the Most High God, loved the Lord first and sought Him in prayer when she had nowhere else to turn. She not only prayed for herself, she prayed for anyone in need and took the extra step by opening her doors to the less fortunate. There are so many things she’s done for others that we will never know. Her quiet, reassuring presence came from her knowledge of His power - she just agreed to be a willing vessel. Her generosity, compassion, humbleness, and caring nature allowed her to do things for others, in spite of. She was a faithful member of Temple Baptist Church for more than 35 years. When she couldn’t physically be in the building, she was online watching or listening. She always made time for God even when she didn’t have time for herself. She was one of our blessings and an example of what true love looks like. One could only hope that she is at peace in her rest and that the Lord is pleased with her life. Well done Cris. We will forever love and miss your beautiful soul. Cris was preceded in death by her father, Lawrence Bailey II; mother, Barbara Floyd; stepfather; William Floyd, Sr; brother, Michael Bailey. She leaves to cherish her memory: husband, Earl Smith; sons, Terrance Bailey and Earl Smith; grandchildren, Kingston Santiago, Erin Smith, Layla Smith, Dayana Chandler, Ari Smith, Eli Smith, Més Smith; brothers, Lawrence Bailey III (Marie), Ray Bailey, Marlowe Bailey; sisters, Renee Bailey (Hassan), Fran Bailey (Levi); stepbrother, William Floyd, Jr; stepsisters, Jean Floyd, Ernestine Floyd; sisters-in-law, Denise Symonds (Kenneth), Yvette Ballard (Tony), Erica Smith; a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Crystal Y. Smith

March 18, 1962 - February 8, 2024