June 14, 1954 — April 20, 2026
Ellen Christine “Chris” Byers (née Scaggs), age 71, passed away suddenly on April 20, 2026. She was born on June 14, 1954, in Washington, D.C., to Julia and Joseph Scaggs.
A long-time resident of Manitou Springs, Chris grew up in Beltsville, Maryland, graduating from High Point High School before pursuing her passion for helping others at the University of Maryland and the University of Wisconsin.
A dedicated Occupational Therapist by trade, Chris’s work ethic was legendary. As a mother, she was a pillar of strength, often working three jobs simultaneously to ensure her daughters had everything they needed. Her resilience was matched only by her warmth; Chris never met a stranger. She had a rare gift for walking into a room of people she didn’t know and leaving hours later having shared stories and learned something meaningful about every person there. If laughter is indeed the best medicine, Chris was undoubtedly the world’s best doctor, healing those around her with her quick wit and deep care.
Chris found joy in the simple and the beautiful. She enjoyed gardening, interior design and reading. She cherished quiet moments walking with Keith and their faithful dog, Zephyr, as well as lively gatherings with her “inner circle” of dear friends. Above all, her heart belonged to her family. She was at her happiest when surrounded by her children and grandchildren, who were the light of her life.
She is survived by her loving husband, Keith Gohsler; her daughters, Brittany Ahlgrim (Christopher) and Michelle Katzen (Jason); her sister, Nancy Scaggs, and sister-in-law, Nancy Scaggs. She remains a guiding light for her five cherished grandchildren: Gavin (13), twins Ethan and Allie Ahlgrim (11) and Brynn (5), and Rylee Katzen (3). She will be greatly missed by many relatives and friends. Chris was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Gary and Richard Scaggs.
A Celebration of Life will be held in Manitou Springs, CO, on July 11, 2026. In keeping with Chris’s spirit of generosity and her desire to see others happy, the family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to any charity that brings you personal joy.