Chris Melton

SHELBY: Christopher David Melton, cherished husband, proud father, and devoted friend to many, passed away unexpectedly on August 4, 2024 at the age of 53. A lifelong resident of Cleveland County, Chris was born on October 20, 1970. He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and service to the community that will forever be etched into the hearts of all who knew him. Surviving Chris is his beloved wife, Kerri, and their three children whom he adored; Brayson, Landry and Brock. Also surviving him are his father Donald Melton (wife Brenda) and his mother, Catherine Pruett Price (husband Buddy) as well as his sister, Kim McKee (husband Ron) and many dearly loved nieces and nephews. Family was the center of Chris’ world and he savored every moment he was able to spend with them. Fond memories of cruises, mountain weekends and trips to Boston will bring peace in difficult times. Outside of work and family, Chris was passionate about sports throughout his life. A football player for Burns High School and then Gardner Webb during his college years, Chris switched teams and continued his love for the game by becoming a Crest coach as an adult. Coaching was only part of his gameplan; he was also a mentor, a role model, and a friend. As a result, his impact went far beyond the field of play, imparting lifelong values of teamwork, perseverance, and mutual respect. Chris took pride in every one of his football and baseball players and his dedication to them was unwavering; his influence on their lives will continue to shape them for years to come. A beloved member of a large yet close-knit community, Chris quickly developed meaningful and authentic friendships; his infectious smile, warm heart, and genuine concern for others left an indelible impact on everyone he met. He had a unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life, and his friendships ran deep. His loss is deeply felt by those who have known him. A memorial service celebrating Chris’ life will be held on Friday, August 9th at 11:00 AM at Poplar Springs Baptist Church followed by graveside services at the church. A receiving of friends and family will be held at 12:30 pm in the Family Life Center. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Crest Middle School Football Booster Club in Chris’ memory. The family is asking, and Chris would be the first to agree, that dress should be informal. Also, the family would love for anyone who played with, or were coached by Chris to proudly wear their team colors. Funeral services are entrusted to Clay-Barnette Funeral Home and Aquamation Center www.claybarnette.com