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BORN

1989

DIED

2024

FUNERAL HOME

CLOSED-Devanny-Condron Funeral Home

40 Maplewood Avenue

Pittsfield, Massachusetts

Christopher Hairston Obituary

Christopher Hairston, age 35, a local musician from Pittsfield, MA was tragically and unexpectedly taken from this world earlier this month.

Chris was born in Brooklyn, NY on March 14, 1989. He was raised in Pittsfield and During his time at Taconic High School, Chris was a co-captain of wrestling team and was a member of the marching band. He graduated in 2007. He later earned his Liberal Arts degree from Berkshire Community College.

Chris was an exceptional and naturally talented percussionist skilled in drum set, drum corps and traditional African rooted drumming. He was a member of and assistant in the intergenerational group the Berkshire Rhythm Keepers. Chris shared his drumming talents at many venues including Kripalu as a member of the KDZ drum team, Canyon Ranch, BCC and with his group Blue Light Jazz Trio and as a guest percussionist with many local bands and featured artist at the Tamarack Hollow Berkshire Drum Fest.

Chris "Stix" was a fun-loving spirit with a big, open heart, infectious laugh and deep understanding of rhythm and being "in the pocket" as he would say. His contribution and connection to the drum community reached far and wide. He will be deeply missed by so many.

Chris is survived by his sister, Melanie D. Asta, and her daughter, Alyvia Rose Asta, with whom Chris lived most of his life. He is also survived by his brother, Anthony Asta, and his son, Joseph Asta, and the many close friends Chris had over the years. He always treasured his friendships.

Chris was predeceased by his mother, Barbara Asta, and his brother, Michael Asta.

SERVICES: Calling Hours at the Devanny-Condron Funeral Home will be Thursday, May 2, 2024 from 4-6:30PM. A Funeral Home Service and Time of Remembrance will begin at 6:30PM.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial scholarship will be established to assist a local student further their education and dedication to music. Checks may be made payable to the Devanny-Condron Funeral Home and mailed to 40 Maplewood Ave. Pittsfield, MA 01201.

Published by The Berkshire Eagle on Apr. 30, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Christopher Hairston

Sponsored by The Berkshire Eagle.

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17 Entries

Linda Beckwith

April 24, 2025

Miss you to the and back.You always were the brightest star

Linda Beckwith

July 11, 2024

Chris.I looked up to you in so many ways .Your talent and determination was beyond anything I've ever seen .You have left a huge hole in my heart.i had met you by chance.I was the lucky one for you to have been placed in my path .You have taught me to laugh in times of uncertainty and to always hold on to hope.My hope is that i can become just a fraction of the person you were.Til we meet again my friend.Love, Linda

Erin

July 10, 2024

I used to play chess with Chris at a program give me love the game of chess thing about the game differently than I used to play great impact on my life and I'm very sad to hear about this I wish I could do something to help with family and they're treating this is very sad

Jen

May 22, 2024

An instant "brother from another mother" to SO many in the community.

I´m still in shock. I keep rounding a corner, expecting that wide smile and bright eyes, with open arms.

Beloved by many, grief is compounded by such a tragic end. May justice prevail, but sadly like many in our community, an unsettled peace for those left behind.

I don´t know why this world is so cruel to the brightest stars, but I am glad I saw his comet tail, before it faded.

Burn bright, Stix, and catch you in the universal jam session. Stay in the pocket, dear one.

Barby

May 5, 2024

My condolences to Chris's family and loved ones. I was blessed to know this genuine kind hearted man who without any questions would always try and help others. He is such a talented you man who has accomplished so much. I will never forget all the fun good times we had and laughing so much. He always made my day brighter when I would have a bad day even when he was going through his own life challenges. Thank you Chris for the friendship I have with you . You are and will forever me missed and loved. RIP Chris

Stephanie S.

May 3, 2024

I am still in disbelief why something so horrific would happen to such a kind soul. 17 years later after high school you still kept in touch and even though you were going through really challenging times, you were so positive and always said the most insightful things. I´ll miss you sending videos just jamming out in your element and all the inside jokes we had in band where you´d get kicked out simply because you couldn´t stop laughing. Rest easy, Chris.

Kelly C.

May 2, 2024

Wow..what a shock.I never knew about all his accomplishments...I knew he was a drummer because he was my upstairs neighbor for a year...lol. We fought. Chris was a kind, energetic soul who left this world far too early. May he be at peace now...condolences and prayers to his family.

Margaret

April 30, 2024

Melanie and family, Joel and I are so sorry for your loss. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Joel and Margaret Lenski

Anthony A

April 30, 2024

My condolences to Chris is family. He was a great guy with so much talent and an awesome sense of humor.

Janet Cormier

April 30, 2024

Mel & Liv
Your brother/Uncle will be sorely missed, he was a good person. And his smile was truly infectious.
Janet Cormier

Gary & Abby O'Brien

April 30, 2024

Melanie,
Very sorry to learn of your brother's passing.

John A. Bernardo Esq

April 30, 2024

My condolences to the family. May the fond and loving memories be a comfort and always be with you.

Laurie Robertson

April 30, 2024

Melanie and Alyvia,
I'm so sad to hear about Chris' passing! I remember him coming in the office to visit with that big smile of his. I'll keep you both in my prayers. God bless!

Laurie Robertson
Pittsfield

Matthew Pictrowski

April 30, 2024

My condolences to the Hairston Family. An unfortunate loss of a talented, spirited Man.
May fond memories keep Chris' spirt in your hearts.

Linda Bressette

April 30, 2024

Melanie my deepest condolences to you and your family.

K.C.

April 30, 2024

I did not know your brother but I am so moved by what a bright light he seemed to be. I have visited Kripalu many times and would guess I have danced to his drumming before. I am so sorry for your loss.

Devanny-Condron Funeral Home

April 30, 2024

We wanted you to know how much we care. Please know that we are here for you.

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Memorial Events
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May

2

Calling hours

4:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

CLOSED-Devanny-Condron Funeral Home

40 Maplewood Avenue, Pittsfield, MA 01201

May

2

Funeral service

6:30 p.m.

CLOSED-Devanny-Condron Funeral Home

40 Maplewood Avenue, Pittsfield, MA 01201

Funeral services provided by:

CLOSED-Devanny-Condron Funeral Home

40 Maplewood Avenue, Pittsfield, MA 01201

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