Christine “Chris” Stafiej, was born on June 1, 1950 in Chicago, Illinois. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, partner, and friend, passed away June 26, 2025, at the age of 75, surrounded by the love of her family.

Chris believed in the power of giving back, and her selfless spirit shone brightly through her work with the Lions Club, DAV, Heber Springs Chamber of Commerce, Cleburne County Cares, Cleburne County Relay for Life, and many committees and ladies’ groups at St. Albert’s Catholic Church. She was a constant presence, always ready to lend a hand, share a listening ear, or offer her time for others. Her volunteer work was a testament to her generous heart, and she inspired many through her actions.

She was obsessed with anything Chicago! She enjoyed playing bingo at church, attending the Waychoff Senior Center events, sharing her coupon and savings deals, going to the movies, spending the day at Dawn’s campsite, taking bus trips with the senior group, attending shows in Branson, shopping with friends, going to any new business or restaurant on its grand opening day and being everyone’s 4-1-1 on all of the town’s news and events.

She was preceded in death by her husband Ronald Stafiej, Walter and Mabel Stancy (parents), and siblings: Patricia Gill, David Stancy and Walter (Corky) Stancy.

She is survived by her daughter, Dawn Stafiej Gillespie (Troy Gillespie, husband), her beloved grandson, Mason Gillespie, Edward Stancy (brother), Ron Williams (partner) and her grand-dog Nola. Chris was a beloved cousin, aunt of many nieces and nephews, and a friend to all.

Family and friends are invited to come, share memories and celebrate Chris’s life: Friday, July 25th *6:00pm-6:20pm Rosary / Visitation 6:30pm-8:00pm at the Heber Springs Funeral Home Saturday, July 26th *10:00am Funeral Mass & Services at St. Albert’s Catholic Church / Chris will be laid to rest in the church’s columbarium. Afterward, family and friends are invited for fellowship and luncheon.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to the CARTI Foundation (P.O. Box 55011, Little Rock, AR 72215 or https://www.carti.com/foundation/donate-now/ ) in honor and celebration of Mason Gillespie.

Though she is no longer with us, Chris’s love, strength, and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew her.