Christopher Andrew "Chris" Betts

On Tuesday August 6, 2024, Christopher "Chris" Andrew Betts, 58, passed peacefully from this life onto the next. Born August 27, 1965, in Hendersonville, NC, he was the son of Alice Strider Betts and the late Robert (Bob) Andrew Betts, Jr.
Chris was a presence larger than life with eyes like the sea and a heart as deep as any ocean. Known first and foremost as an incredibly talented artist, the treasures made by his beautiful hands will serve as a powerful reminder to is friends and family of his vibrant soul. From a '69 VW Bug with scales and fins to portraits of loved ones, wood turning and carving, melting jewelry boxes, exquisitely crafted walking sticks, giant sand sculptures, and burn barrels that made his yard the envy of the town on Halloween, Chris's creativity seemed to know no bounds.
On June 1, 2002, Chris met Nancy. A sign hangs in their home that reads "True love is a friendship set on fire". Chris had long stated that he never wanted to marry or have children but the true love he shared with Nancy changed his heart. They wed on October 27, 2007, and he gained two children. In April of 2008 they welcomed their first grandchild and a man who didn't want a family of his own grew into the best "grampa" a kid could ask for. The love Chris and Nancy shared and the life they built was nothing short of extraordinary. In 22 years they filled their life together with enough love and adventure to fill several lifetimes to the brim. Ever a fan of fall colors, adventure and humor, Chris's wish for those he leaves behind is to live life to the fullest. Travel as often and far as you can. Love with your whole heart, give big hugs, and tell your people how much you love them. Appreciate the beauty of everyday things, watch a sunrise, stare at a cool leaf, laugh loud at every opportunity, and pet every dog you can!
Surviving, in addition to his mother, are his wife, Nancy K. Betts; daughter, Ashley N. Stevenson; son, A.J. Duncan (Devon); grandchildren, Corren, Caleb, Bailey, Nora and Zach; sister, Lori B. Cavanaugh (Dean) and their children Emma and Johnathan; lifelong friends, Johnny, Doug, Traci, Matt, Jane and Chris; his beloved dog, Max as well as many other family members and friends that loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Andrew Betts Jr., and life long friend, Wesley Stepp.
Chris suffered greatly through his two-year battle with cancer. He lost his ability to taste, his ability for adventure, and his strength to create. Cancer ended his time with us here on earth but it didn't win. We take comfort in knowing that he lives on. It is our hope that his days are now spent fishing and snow skiing with his dad, disturbing the peace with Wesley, eating bacon, cheese puffs with mayo, and his momma's pound cake, stroking dog ears and creating beautiful art for all the host of heaven to enjoy.
A Celebration Of Life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, PO Box 50, Memphis TN 38101-9929, or Blue Ridge Humane Society, 1214 Greenville Highway, Hendersonville, NC 28792. We love you so much and will hold you close in our hearts until we meet again. Shuler Funeral Home has the honor of serving the family.