Carolyn Christena Orr Smith

Carolyn Christena Orr Smith, 89, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus on the evening of October 15, 2023. A private memorial service on Friday October 20 is entrusted to Shirley Brothers Fishers-Castleton Chapel. "Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.’” John 11:25 Carolyn was born in Indianapolis on February 12, 1934 to Nolan Bristow Orr and Beatrice Christena Pitman Orr. Along with her siblings Bryan, Phyllis and Don, she treasured everything about family life in Indianapolis and their adventure in Baltimore when her father was called upon to design engines for WWII planes. Returning to Indiana, she and her family enjoyed special times at the Orr farm in Scircleville, Indiana, and visiting their beloved grandmother Laura Jane Kelly Pitman Goodnight in Michigantown, Indiana. It was at Northwood Christian Church in Indianapolis where Carolyn met her dear friend, Suzann Sconce (Price/Bowsher). They engaged in equal measure of fun and mischief throughout the early years, together navigating the highs and lows of their long and challenge-filled lives. Carolyn became an honorary aunt to Linda, Steve, Kathy and Lisa, a role she thoroughly enjoyed. After graduating from Shortridge High School in 1951, she earned a B.S. in Education at Ball State, and Master’s degree at IU. At Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority, Carolyn forged deep friendships, including Francis Phend (Carr). She treasured Fran like a sister. Carolyn taught elementary school at Speedway, IPS, and Carmel Clay Schools. In 1956, her beauty, charm and quick wit caught the eye of David L. Smith. Despite the fact she was paired with another beau on their double-date, Dave won her over and they soon married. Their first son was born in 1959 and a daughter in 1961. Amidst a sorrowful time of life losses (her mother, brother Don, and her infant niece Heidi), the birth Carolyn and Dave’s second son in 1964 and strong faith helped assuage the grief. Carolyn continued her mother’s legacy by creating a loving home built on a strong spiritual foundation and belief in the importance of family bonds. She worked tirelessly to remain connected to extended family members, created an ideal childhood for the kids on Greentree Drive, and orchestrated gatherings for relatives and friends. With Dave’s encouragement, Carolyn took up golfing, forming new friendships at the (former) Greentree Country Club. She willingly supported the many ambitious undertakings set in motion by Dave and the children, despite how their antics often upended her preference for calm, drama-free, ordinary days. Carolyn was an active member of Crestview Christian Church and East 91st Street Christian Church. She was a group leader with Creative Living Bible Study, inspired by her mentor, the late Anne Walls. She modeled the love of Christ throughout her life by caring for and engaging with her parents, siblings, in-laws, children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, aunts and neighbors. Her gentle, patient spirit and infectious smile complimented the twinkle in her husband’s blue eyes and his spontaneous, vivacious personality. After David retired from Indiana National Bank, they enjoyed traveling with many friends (including Bill and Helen Fry), golfing trips, Mustard Seed Bible Study, and engaging with their children -- Gary Smith (Patty) of Camas WA, Julie Costakis (Thomas) of Fishers IN, Greg Smith (Phyllis) of Maplewood MN. The joy of later years centered on spending time with grandchildren, whether it meant traveling half way around the globe to Phuket, Thailand, flying across the country to the Pacific Coast, meeting up at Disney World, or walking down the road to the Costakis home. Shortly after their 50th anniversary in 2006, David died unexpectedly. Once again, Carolyn leaned into the promises of God, love of family, and devotion of friends to rise above heartbreak. In addition to her children and their spouses, her beloved grandchildren carry on her legacy: John (Nikita), Alex, Emily (Matt), Matthew, Justin, Rachel (Eric), Grant, Christina, Andrea, and long prayed for great-grandson, Kenny. The Costakis and Smith families wish to thank the myriad of friends and caregivers offering support throughout the difficult final years and months of Carolyn’s heaven-bound journey. Online condolences may be sent to the family at: https://www.shirleybrothers.com/obituaries/Carolyn-Smith-121/#!/TributeWall In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Carolyn’s name may be donated to the Michael J. Fox Foundation in recognition of her son, Gary Smith. To honor Carolyn’s legacy of love and faith, consider reconnecting with a family member or friend in need.

Tributes

Carolyn Christena Orr Smith

February 12, 1934 - October 15, 2023