It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Christel Therese Smalls, devoted mother, cherished grandmother and great-grandmother, on May 3,2025 at the age of 85. Christel T. Smalls was born in Amberg, Germany to parents Klara and Georg Ghering, on February 24, 1940. She was a pillar of strength with a generous heart, always willing to lend an ear and never afraid to share her opinion.
Christel Therese Smalls dedicated her life to her family. She cherished her three children, her grandson, and her great-grandchildren. She adored her extended family, Connie Smalls, John Adams, Joe Lunich, Isaiha Smalls, Steven Smalls, Julie Lunich, Ashley Smalls and the children, Nic, Kady, Chloe, Jessica, Hayden, Bailey Gavin and John. She also delighted in her friendships with the Newsome’s, Nora, Wes, and her Busch Gardens Family.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Klara and Georg Ghering; daughter, Bernice T. Smalls; ex-husband, John W. Smalls; and uncle, Eirhart Trauvalt.
She is survived by her children, Janice P. Green and James W. Smalls; grandson Andre M. Smalls; great-grandchildren Aaliyah and Sophia Smalls; brother, Fred Ghering; and aunt, Erika Trauvalt.
Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved her and all that had an opportunity to know her.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May 10th at 4 p.m. at Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd, Newport News, VA 23601. The family will accept flowers at this location. Following the service, we will repast at: 329 Peach Tree Crescent, Newport News VA 23602.
6 Comments
Ms. Christel was a wonderful person. I’m so honored I got to know her while working at Busch. She was always a pleasure to talk to and reminded me so much of my own Oma. My condolences to her family she will be greatly missed.
Kirsten,
My sincerest thanks and gratitude for your kind words. We appreciate the outpouring of support.
Pat (Christel’s Daughter)
Thank you for all the wonderful memories and your expertise in all things German at BGW.
Thank-you Kimberly. I am so happy that you had the opportunity to work with her.
Her Busch Gardens Family was very special to her.
I had the pleasure of meeting Christel many years ago after I had become friends with her son. It was also a privilege to meet her because she had such a positive impact as a parent to her children and as a friend who always had time to talk, share, and listen. I will always miss her and the things that we shared. Her legacy will live on through all that knew her.
I would like to thank her for accepting me into her family. I will miss Christel very much. God bless