Christopher Gray Clinard

Christopher Gray Clinard, age 47, of Harrisonburg, Virginia, died Monday, February 3, 2025, at his home.
Chris was a devoted husband to his wife of 18 years, Erin. They shared a deep and profound love, creating a beautiful life and true partnership for 21 years. His greatest joy was being an ever-present and dedicated father to his two daughters, Amelia and Violet, who were the light of his life. He was their rock and most steadfast supporter. He taught them to love unconditionally, to learn through failure, to expand their worlds through books and learning, and to live their lives with joy.
He leaves behind so many who love him including his mother Nancy Clinard, sister and brother-in-law, Sara and Chad Outler; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Vince and Tricia Tully; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Sean and Trisha Tully, and brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Brian and Kim Tully; and his most adored nieces Quinn Tully, baby girl Tully, and nephews Liam Tully and Brady Oppel. He was preceded in death by his father, Russell Gray Clinard.
Chris was a gentle, warm, and brilliant man who lived a life of kindness and service. He was happiest doing for others and caring for his family, neighbors, colleagues, and community. He was selfless and generous with his knowledge and talents, and his ability to listen with intention and accept others as they were and without judgment was among his most remarkable qualities. Though he had a beautifully quiet presence, there was nothing he loved more than laughing and making others laugh as well (dad jokes were his specialty). He had a passion for food and love of music, and anyone who spoke with him, even briefly, would undoubtedly hear about one of those favorite topics. Above all, Chris believed in supporting others selflessly and choosing kindness, always, accepting and loving everyone for exactly who they were.
He was a lover of knowledge. Chris earned a B.B.A in Music Business from Belmont University in Nashville, TN in 1999. He earned his M.A. in Audiology in 2004 at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, where he also met and fell in love with his wife, Erin. He went on to become a leading expert in electrophysiology and the effects of aging on the hearing and vestibular systems, earning his Ph.D. in 2010 from the University of Washington. He was prolific in his writing and research and was passionate about the science of discovery and learning.
As a dedicated professor for more than 14 years at James Madison University, Chris left an indelible mark on the field of audiology and the countless students whose lives he touched. He cared deeply for every student he taught, seeking to ensure that every student felt valued, supported, and understood.
Though his life was tragically cut short, Chris has left a beautiful and lasting mark on this world and all who knew him. A memorial service will be held to celebrate his life. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to help support his daughters. Further details will be shared via social media.