Remembering former Miss Universe Chelsi Smith on her 3rd death anniversary

The Texas native was best known for capturing the title of Miss Texas in 1995 and going on to win Miss USA and Miss Universe just months later.

However, Smith became the first and only woman from Texas to win both pageants, as well as the first American woman in 15 years to claim the Miss Universe title.

On September 8, 2018, Chelsi Smith’s family had released a statement and broke the devastating news.

“We are heartbroken to share the news that Chelsi Smith has passed away following a protracted illness,” they said. “Chelsi was our loving daughter, niece, and friend. We will miss her infectious laughter, joie de vivre, and free spirit. She left an indelible mark on all those who knew her.”

The family added: “While we mourn the loss of this vivacious and kind-hearted woman, we also celebrate her remarkable life and hope that it serves as an example to young women around the world that their dreams are possible through a loving heart and an enlightened mind.”

On the other hand, Bollywood’s legendary actress and Miss Universe 1994 Sushmita Sen mourned the loss of Smith with a teary-eyed post.

Sushmita had taken to Twitter to remember her friend and mourn the loss of a beautiful soul.

Along with a throwback picture of her and Chelsi on social media, Sushmita wrote, “I loved her smile & that generous spirit!!! Rest in peace, my beautiful friend. Dugga Dugga”