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Chris Kayser Obituary
And he played a horse, in "Strider, the Story of a Horse," at the Academy Theater in 1985.
For more than 40 years, Kayser was the leading man, comic relief and villain of the Atlanta theater community, playing many roles on many stages, mentoring and working tirelessly behind the scenes.
"He was the king of Atlanta theater," said his frequent co-star Bethany Lind Mendenhall. "But he either did not know or did not care that he was the king. He never acted like it. He was just so grateful that he got to do what he loved with people that he loved."
"There's not a professional actor in Atlanta who is more than one degree of separation from Chris," said Christopher Moses, co-artistic director of the Alliance Theatre, where Kayser's 17 consecutive years playing Scrooge defined the role for Atlanta theatergoers.
"He was the heartbeat of every show he was in."
Kayser died Dec. 3 at his home in Decatur from prostate cancer. He was 75.
He is survived by his wife Terri; son Jacob; daughter Noelle Kayser (Brady Tilghman, her husband); sister Mary Sellers (Jeffrey) and brother Joe Kayser (Kathy).
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to the Atlanta Shambala Center, atlanta.shambhala.org.
A celebration of life service will be announced later for early 2025.
Read more about Chris Kayser on ajc.com. Photo from ajc.com
Memories and Condolences
for Chris Kayser
13 Entries
Allen O'Reilly
January 13, 2025
The absolute best of men and my life has been made so much richer by our countless collaborations. Rest in power, Chris.
Sara S Winship
January 7, 2025
We'll always remember Chris tapdancing and singing "It's a Tough Job" at GA Shakespeare Festival. Such lighthearted fun.
Bob
December 14, 2024
He always looked like he was enjoying whatever he was doing.
Phil
December 13, 2024
I had the honor and privilege of working with Chris last year in an amateur rendition of A Christmas Carole. I had never met him before but was blown away by his skill and professionalism. He made no effort to hide his illness then but graciously showed up for our production like he had only stubbed his toe. I was humbled by his ability to make sure "the show goes on" with good humor and generosity of spirit. I only knew him briefly but he left a deep impression on me. My prayers go out to his family and everyone who knew and appreciated him
Marcus Alford
December 9, 2024
Terri, so very sorry for your loss. A million positive thoughts and prayers headed to way to you and your family. Chris was a true treasure in so many ways. He was a BRIGHT LIGHT that shined on so many places and on so many souls. He truly will be missed. Marcus Alford and Annie Day
Anita
December 8, 2024
The Atlanta arts community was set apart from so many other large cities because of having the outstanding talent of someone like Chris. My sincerest condolences to his family and friends.
Jane Weir
December 7, 2024
I have 2 strong memories, 1 of Terri and 1 of Chris. I was taking a makeup Jazz class at Bobby Archer studio on Cheshire Bridge and it was the regular performing corps´ class. Chris paid me a great complement by encouraging me to try out to join. I didnt do so but was really graced by his kindness.
I took ballet class there with Terri and I Remrmber the day she came in to class to teach showing us all her beautiful new engagement ring. Another great teacher and lover of dance performance.
Tom and Kathy Delaney
December 7, 2024
Terri
Our prayers are with you and your family. We so appreciate the opportunity we had to be together every year when you and Chris were kind and generous to host the visiting students and chaperones from Lecole Saint Denis Loches France. Our theatre community is less rich today and we have such great memories of Chris work with the Academy Theatre, Georgia Shakespeare, and Horizon to name just a few. There will never be another Scrooge like Chris. He was truly a remarkable actor and wonderful man.
Much Love to you and family at this sad time.
Tom and Kathy Delaney
Sandra Hargrove Carnet
December 6, 2024
My deepest sympathies go out to Chris´ family. He was a close friend back in the early seventies. He could never have predicted the powerful impact he would have on my life when he introduced me to my French husband of 51 years back in 1971 when they were both working together at the very popular Rue de Paris restaurant in Underground Atlanta. He had the best laugh, was a great harmonizer to sing with and a great dancer. Rest easy dear Chris. You are forever linked to our hearts. Sandra and Jean Carnet
Danny Feig-Sandoval
December 6, 2024
Oh Chris, what a kind, gentle soul who meant so much to so many. You will always hold a spot in the hearts of all who loved you. Thank you for a great life shared with so many. Danny Feig-Sandoval
Daniel McCall
December 6, 2024
I am so very sorry to hear that Chris passed away. I knew him at the GSU theater department when we were both cast in Pfeiffer's People. I recall our director was ebullient that Chris was joining the cast. I got to study theater with the iconic Mary Nell Santacroce during that time period. (1978) I have wonderful memories from then. I hate cancer. Farewell Chris!
Gary Nagel
December 6, 2024
We saw him probably a dozen times, half as Scrooge and half other roles. He WAS Scrooge, but his other roles were classic as well. It was remarkable to have an actor among the very best in your own community. Condolences to his family.
Bill Kiser
December 6, 2024
Terri,
I am so sorry to hear about Chris's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
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