Chris Scruggs

SHELBY- Christopher “Chris” Burton Scruggs, born on the most festive of days, December 25, 1971, in Shelby, NC, decided to make an early exit from this earthly stage on October 2, 2025, also in Shelby, NC. At a sprightly 53 years young, Chris lived a life full of laughter, music, and boundless enthusiasm that could rival the energy of any Southern rock anthem he adored.

As a chef, Chris didn’t just cook; he created culinary symphonies that somehow always ended with everyone clamoring for seconds. His taste in music was as diverse as his cooking, but Southern Rock held a special place in his heart, much like his trusty guitar, which he played with the gusto of a rock star—even if the only stage was his living room.

Chris was an artist at heart, and his love for drawing was evident in doodles left on napkins, receipts, and any surface that dared to be blank. When not drawing or making music, he was likely orchestrating jokes—his comedic timing was legendary among friends and family, and his infectious laugh could light up any room.

Known as the fun uncle, Chris was the kind of guy who would start a water balloon fight at a family gathering just to see the kids (and adults) giggle with glee. Generous to a fault, he'd give you the shirt off his back—with a punchline, of course.

He was preceded in death by his father, CB Scruggs, and his sister, Angie Pugh, who are no doubt welcoming him with open arms—and possibly a guitar jam session—in the great beyond.

Chris leaves behind his loving mother, Patricia Lemons Scruggs; his brother, Brian Bowman; and a lively entourage of nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews: Johnathan Bowman, Haley Bowman, Casie Fullove, Kristin Pugh, Nicholas Pugh, Gracie Pugh, Malaya, Jayce, Cameron, Colton, Angel, Kayden, Sophia, Zakora, Maddison, and Luna-May.

A gathering of Friends will occur on Friday, October 10, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Clay-Barnette Funeral Home. Come ready to remember the good times, share funny stories, and celebrate the man who lived life like every day was his last.

Chris was a funny, fun, outgoing, and genuinely good person, known for being generous, goofy, and the life of the party. He worked hard, loved his family fiercely, and never missed an opportunity to make someone smile. While his departure leaves a silence, his spirit continues to echo in the laughter and music of those who knew and loved him.

Services are entrusted to Clay-Barnette Funeral Home & Aquamation Center www.claybarnette.com