Chris Alan Cornish

Talent, of course — the most amazing voice. Beginning with the Atlanta Boy Choir, Chris evolved into a talent that rivaled the front-man quality of Jagger and the pop standards of Sinatra. Songwriter, musician, dinner theater performer — he could do it all. Chris played drums, guitar, and keyboards — but what a voice, and what an energetic performer. For decades, he played with numerous bands before embarking on a solo career. Chris had an ear for sound and production — invaluable to musicians seeking perfection. Most recently, he performed at various restaurants and assisted living facilities. Senior citizens and children of all ages loved his voice, style, and unique ability to soulfully involve them in his performance.

Chris also held positions in construction, groundskeeping, plumbing, and plastics. He could repair anything; and if he didn’t know how, he found out. Most recently, he was assisting his nephew with home repairs — mounting cabinets, unsticking old windows that had been painted shut — difficult physical labor.

Beginning in the sixties, along with his late brother-in-law, Chris created original music using reel-to-reel recording equipment. Numerous videos showcasing his unique spontaneity were recorded with the tools of the day — Betamax and VHS. Innovative, ahead of his time — one of the most fun-loving, creative, and unconstrained personalities one would ever encounter. Proof will be forthcoming via multiple digital platforms.

Chris loved being a father to Pip and his wife Sara, and to Tristan; and a grandad to Wilks, Sydney, Brennan, and Nora. Pat, his wife of 52 years, is still his best friend. He leaves numerous surviving relatives, all dumbfounded by his rapid, unexpected departure. A father figure to many, a wonderful grandad — able to relate to any age, telling stories, inventing games, dancing, creating music, and of course, providing sage advice.

For the past 20 years, Chris selflessly dedicated his life to the care of family members who were faced with afflictions such as ALS, paralyzing stroke, dementia, cancer, ASD, and panic disorders — many requiring daily attention. A mediator — calm, wise, truly inspirational to the needs of family and friends. He sought the good in everyone, bringing positive energy, levity, and happiness to all he met.

There is a tremendous void in the family and community, as Chris has left us too soon. Cancer robbed him of future plans, and heaven knows what he would have accomplished. The picture of health in April — despite treatment and a hard fight — he was losing the battle. His youngest grandson asked, “Are you dying, Grandad?”

“No,” Chris replied, “nobody ever dies — they transition to the ether.”

“Oh, OK,” said the child cheerily.

He did have a smile on his face when he departed… a star away.