Chrishell Stause has become a household name thanks to her dazzling presence on Netflix’s hit reality series Selling Sunset. But behind her glamour, success, and glowing smile lies a deeply emotional and inspiring story about her family — particularly her parents. The story of Chrishell Stause’s parents is one of love, loss, resilience, and the powerful lessons that shaped her into the strong woman she is today.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Chrishell Stause’s parents, her humble beginnings, the struggles she faced growing up, and how those experiences molded her career, relationships, and character.
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Who Are Chrishell Stause’s Parents?
Chrishell Stause was born on July 21, 1981, in Draffenville, Kentucky, to parents Jeff Stause and Rheta Stause. Her full name is Terrina Chrishell Stause, and she grew up in a family that faced financial hardships and personal challenges.
Her parents lived a modest lifestyle and often struggled to make ends meet. They did their best to support their children, but the family endured periods of instability, including homelessness. Despite their financial troubles, Chrishell’s parents were loving and supportive, instilling in her values of hard work, compassion, and perseverance.
Chrishell has always spoken fondly of her parents, emphasizing that although they lacked material wealth, they were rich in love and life lessons.
Chrishell’s Difficult Childhood and Homelessness
One of the most striking parts of Chrishell’s early life story is her experience with homelessness. In several interviews and her memoir Under Construction: Because Living My Best Life Took a Little Work, she opened up about how her family sometimes lived in trailer parks or even in their car.
Her parents worked multiple jobs to provide for their six children, but consistent housing was often out of reach. Despite this, Chrishell’s parents never gave up, and their determination left a lasting impression on her.
“We didn’t have much, but we had each other. My parents did everything they could,” Chrishell said in an interview.
These early struggles gave her a strong sense of empathy and gratitude — traits that would later shine through in her career and personal life.
The Unique Origin of Her Name: A Story of Kindness
The story of how Chrishell got her name is almost cinematic. Her mother, Rheta, went into labor at a Shell gas station. A kind gas station attendant named Chris helped her during the emergency, and out of gratitude, Rheta decided to name her baby Chrishell — combining Chris and Shell.
Although Chrishell later clarified that her birth didn’t literally happen at the gas station, the story represents a powerful symbol of her family’s resilience and the kindness of strangers that surrounded her upbringing.
This heartwarming anecdote about Chrishell Stause’s parents and her birth has followed her throughout her life, symbolizing hope and unexpected generosity even in difficult moments.
Losing Both Parents to Cancer: A Tragic Chapter
One of the most heartbreaking chapters in Chrishell’s life was losing both of her parents within a short span of time. Her mother, Rheta Stause, passed away in 2020 after a long battle with lung cancer. Just a year earlier, in 2019, her father Jeff Stause had also succumbed to the same illness.
Both losses deeply affected Chrishell. She often shares emotional tributes on social media, honoring their memory and expressing how much she misses them.
“In losing my parents to cancer, I’ve learned that grief doesn’t disappear. You just learn how to carry it,” she wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post.
Their passing came during an already turbulent time in her life, as she was going through her public divorce from actor Justin Hartley. Yet, even amidst heartbreak, Chrishell showed incredible strength — a testament to the resilience instilled in her by her parents.
How Her Parents’ Deaths Changed Her Perspective
The death of both parents profoundly changed how Chrishell views life, success, and relationships. She has spoken about how the experience made her more empathetic, grounded, and appreciative of small joys.
After losing her parents, she committed to living life fully, chasing her dreams, and surrounding herself with positive people. It also motivated her to become an advocate for cancer awareness, encouraging others to get regular checkups and support loved ones fighting the disease.
In one emotional post, Chrishell shared:
“My mom and dad taught me that love is the only thing that really matters. I carry that lesson every day.”
Her vulnerability has resonated deeply with fans, making her one of the most relatable figures in reality television.
Chrishell’s Relationship with Her Siblings
Chrishell grew up with several siblings, and her family bond remains strong despite the hardships they endured. She has shared glimpses of her close relationship with her sisters and often credits them for keeping her grounded.
After her parents’ passing, her siblings became her main emotional support system. They frequently celebrate milestones together, honoring their parents’ memory with love and laughter.
Her family’s closeness reflects the deep emotional foundation laid by her parents — one based on unity and unconditional love.
From Small-Town Girl to Hollywood Star
Despite her challenging upbringing, Chrishell Stause’s determination and talent led her from humble beginnings to Hollywood fame. Before becoming a reality TV star, she worked as an actress, starring in popular soap operas like All My Children and Days of Our Lives.
Her transition to Selling Sunset in 2019 introduced her to a global audience, where her charisma and authenticity quickly made her a fan favorite.
Her parents’ lessons in perseverance and humility remain at the heart of her success. Chrishell often credits their influence for her ability to stay genuine, even in the fast-paced, competitive entertainment industry.
Chrishell’s Emotional Tribute to Her Parents
Chrishell frequently honors her parents on social media with heartfelt tributes. On Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, she posts old photos and messages that reflect her enduring love and gratitude.
In one moving Instagram caption, she wrote:
“Happy Mother’s Day in heaven, Mom. You taught me everything about strength and love. I miss you every day.”
And for her father:
“Dad, thank you for teaching me how to dream big, even when life wasn’t easy. You are my forever inspiration.”
These tributes remind fans that behind her fame, she remains deeply connected to her roots and her family’s legacy.
How Her Parents Shaped Her Values
Chrishell Stause’s parents instilled in her values that continue to guide her life today — compassion, humility, and perseverance. Growing up with financial instability taught her to be resourceful and grateful for what she has.
Her parents’ example also taught her to stay humble, no matter how successful she becomes. She often mentions how those early struggles gave her a unique perspective on life and success.
“My parents showed me that happiness doesn’t come from money — it comes from love, laughter, and family,” Chrishell once said.
These lessons have influenced not only her career choices but also how she treats others, both on and off camera.
How Chrishell Honors Her Parents Through Her Work
Beyond emotional tributes, Chrishell honors her parents through her dedication to her craft and her advocacy for important causes. She has participated in charity events supporting cancer research and uses her platform to spread awareness.
Her memoir, Under Construction, also serves as a love letter to her parents. In it, she openly discusses their struggles and how their example continues to inspire her to this day.
Her story resonates with many fans who have faced similar challenges — proving that success is possible even when life starts with hardship.
Overcoming Adversity: The Power of Resilience
Chrishell Stause’s journey from a small Kentucky town to international fame is a story of resilience and determination. The lessons she learned from her parents’ love and strength helped her navigate personal and professional challenges, from homelessness to heartbreak.
Even when her world fell apart — through loss, divorce, and media scrutiny — Chrishell kept moving forward, much like her parents did during tough times.
Her story serves as an inspiring reminder that our beginnings do not define us. Instead, it’s how we rise from adversity that shapes who we become.
Chrishell Stause’s Message to Fans About Family and Gratitude
Chrishell often encourages her followers to cherish their families and appreciate every moment. Her emotional transparency about loss and grief has helped fans dealing with similar pain.
She once said:
“If you still have your parents, hug them tighter today. You never know when life will change.”
Her message is simple yet powerful: gratitude, love, and kindness can heal even the deepest wounds.
Chrishell’s Continued Success: A Tribute to Her Parents’ Legacy
Today, Chrishell Stause continues to build her legacy — as a successful real estate agent, actress, author, and entrepreneur. Each accomplishment stands as a tribute to her parents’ enduring influence.
Her resilience and authenticity make her one of Hollywood’s most admired personalities. Whether she’s selling luxury homes on Selling Sunset or sharing moments of vulnerability online, she remains true to the lessons her parents taught her.
Their memory lives on in her achievements, her compassion, and her unshakable optimism.
Key Lessons from Chrishell Stause’s Parents
| Lesson | How It Shaped Chrishell |
|---|---|
| Perseverance | Helped her overcome homelessness and career struggles |
| Empathy | Made her relatable and kind-hearted in the public eye |
| Humility | Keeps her grounded despite fame and fortune |
| Love and Family First | Strengthened her bonds and emotional resilience |
| Courage in Adversity | Inspired her to share her story openly and help others |
These lessons define not only Chrishell’s life but also the legacy of her parents — ordinary people who raised an extraordinary daughter.
The Everlasting Impact of Chrishell Stause’s Parents
The story of Chrishell Stause’s parents is not just about hardship; it’s about love, resilience, and the triumph of the human spirit. From a childhood marked by struggle to a life filled with gratitude and success, Chrishell’s journey embodies the powerful influence of her family.
Jeff and Rheta Stause may no longer be here, but their legacy lives on through their daughter’s kindness, strength, and success. Their story reminds us that even in loss, there is beauty — and even in pain, there is purpose.
Chrishell continues to honor her parents every day, proving that love truly transcends time, distance, and even death.