Crystal (Lee) White Espey, October 11, 1942 – June 19, 2026.

After a short illness, Heaven has received a beautiful soul to continue watching over

those she loved.

Crystal was born to Gaither Earl White and Janice (Lee) Parker White. She was raised

in the Edmeston and Oneonta areas, graduating from Oneonta High School. After

graduation, Crystal moved to Albany to attend the Austin Beauty School and began

working at Althea's Beauty Salon.

Crystal met the love of her life in the spring of 1962 and after a short courtship she

married Donald R Espey in October of 1962.

Chris and Donnie purchased their Halfmoon house in the spring of 1966 and built a

loving / caring home throughout the years, raising four kids and countless pets. It was

an excellent neighborhood, and Chris was one of the ring leaders. For the next 60

years their home was always open for family and friends to stop in. Whether you

needed an ear to bend, a shoulder to cry on, or just wanted to say hello, everyone knew

they were welcome. Chris always knew what to say.

Chris was a hard worker her entire life. Besides working at Althea's, she also slung

drinks at The Sunset Lanes in Colonie for many years. Chris retired from

Shenendehowa Central Schools after 30 plus years as a bus driver. Chris loved driving

her bus and all the students she drove through the years.

Chris was a 55-year Life member of the Halfmoon Fire Company. She served as

President of the Ladies Auxiliary and most recently as Vice President of the Fire

Company, but she was always cherished as a mentor and Firehouse Mother. She loved

being involved with the Firehouse and its' members and causes. No matter the event

you always found Chris working in the kitchen, with an adult beverage close by. Yes, in

the early days she had at least her four little ones in tow.

Chris is survived by her husband of over 64 loving years Donald R. Espey, her children,

Donald (Judy) Espey Jr., Suzy (Theresa) Espey, Kevin (Cathy) Espey and Gaither (Kim)

Espey; her grandchildren Amanda, Gaither Jr., Kevin Jr., Brad, Don III, Matt, Joey and

Jessica; her great grandchildren Dempsey, Nick, Lilah, Nora and Max; her brother

Bernie (Rose Ann) White, nieces, nephews and many dear friends.

Chris was predeceased by her parents, Gaither and Janice White and her brother

Gaither White Jr., and "sister" Aunt Dawn Dilello.

A "Party for Chris" will be held at the Halfmoon Firehouse, Friday June 26, 2026, at

4pm.