Christopher Randall Hartlaub, Sr.

Christopher Randall Hartlaub, Sr., 63, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, July 17, 2025. Born on March 6, 1962, and raised in Savannah, Georgia, Chris made an honest living painting around town, quietly leaving his mark on the city he loved. 

Chris was such a perfectionist that his family is pretty sure he walked through the pearly gates, only to turn right around to grab his paintbrushes, because even Heaven probably needed a little touch up. He had a great love for the Atlanta Braves and Pittsburg Steelers. Now he has the best seat in the house, with no rain delays, no bad calls, no more jumping up and down yelling at the tv and giving the referees a piece of his mind. 

More than anything else in the world, Chris’s greatest joy in his life was his family. He deeply loved his wife, who was his heart, his home, and his greatest blessing. He was a proud father, always quick to share stories about his kids and their accomplishments no matter how big or small. When his grandkids came along, they became his ultimate pride and joy. He had a special sparkle in his eye and lots of snacks just for them. 

His life was built on hard work, faith and love but it was his family that gave it all meaning. Everything he did, he did for his family. His love for his family will carry on in every memory and every story shared. Always a jokester, Chris loved making everyone laugh. They may not have always been the cleanest jokes, but he always had a joke ready for any occasion. 

Chris is now able to put down his paint brush and flip the paint swatches of Heaven. His earthly work of painting is complete, and now he is able to marvel at the masterpiece of Heaven with his loving wife by his side. 

Preceded in death by his loving wife, Cheryl Hartlaub; parents, Paul Hartlaub and Francis Vaughn Hartlaub; brother, Paul Hartlaub, Jr. and Stephen Hodges; and sister, Leslie Hodges. 

Those he leaves behind to cherish his memory are his children, Chrystal Hartlaub and Christopher Hartlaub, II; grandchildren, Noah Adair, Ava Clause, and Maverick Gulu; brother, Frank Hodges, Sr.; sisters, Patty Parrish, Debbie Stokes, Donna Hodges, Lisa Hodges, Lorrie Sykes, and Terry Hartlaub; and serval nieces and nephews and their families who all hold a special place in his heart. 

Visitation will be held at Carlson & Riggs Funeral Home on Monday, July 21, 2025, from 9am-10am with the funeral service to follow at 10am in the chapel of the funeral home. Chris will be laid to rest, beside his loving wife, in the Springfield Annex following the service.