Christopher Michael Flanagan

Christopher Michael Flanagan, newly known as “Pap-pap” to the new little ones in his life, lived an adventurous life full of love. Chris was born in Palm Springs, California, on November 1, 1962, to loving parents, Leo “Bud” & Patricia Flanagan. He grew up as the baby boy after his two sisters Katie Gerrans & Barbi Benson. He would soon enlist in the US Air Force and leave his home of California, to serve the country and people that he loved.

In his 27 years in the USAF, Chris was honored with multiple meritorious service awards, including receiving the Bronze Star while under the command of the US Army. He would not speak of the awards, as he felt he was doing his duty in protecting the United States and those he was sworn to defend. Chris took great pride in being part of the US Honor Guard at the White House, his service with the Pentagon, and many other assignments; both here & abroad. He served in the Gulf War, Dessert Storm and multiple other military conflicts on foreign soil. Chris was known by those in his command, and those who commanded him, as a dedicated supporter and always put 110% into his work no matter what the task. Chris retired finally in 2011, as a S6T Senior Master Sargent at Pope Air Force base.

Chris could never stay idle. His “side job” at Lowes after retirement to stay busy turned into a 11-year job that he couldn’t step away from. He was finally convinced that it was time to retire from Lowes in December and was looking forward to the freedom it would bring. Some of the things Chris was looking most forward to included: Spending time with his wife Lisa, going on new adventures, becoming a full fledge Pap-pap to his stepson Chris’s two little boys, cheering on his favorite team, FSU, to make the playoffs again, continuing to try new beer and whiskey with his kids, and possibly starting to paint like his father did before him. Chris also looked forward to watching his two children, Abi and Liam, continue to grow into adulthood. He had great pride in his family and often spoke or showed pictures, without hesitation, to anyone that would give him the time. He was quiet and introspective man of few words but could always surprise you with a joke and a laugh at the end of the day.

He is survived by his loving wife, Annalisa, his two children, Abigail Livia and Liam Daniel, and stepson Chris Bosten in NC. Along with his mother, Patricia Flanagan, sisters Barbi Benson and Katie Gerrans, Brother-in-law Art Gerrans, nephew Kyle and niece Kelli in CA. His father, Leo “Bud” William Flanagan (1999), preceded him in death and stands by his side now. Chris loved his entire family and was loved dearly in return.

He will be missed tremendously by everyone who knew him, and he will never be forgotten. Every tease, and every chuckle; every word of encouragement and praise; they will stay with us until we see you again in Heaven with God. We love you so much and will strive to make you proud as you look down on us and guide us through all the hard times and the happy ones to come.

We love you now and forever!

A visitation for Christopher will be held Monday, December 30, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Reeves Funeral Home, 3308 N Main St, Hope Mills, North Carolina 28348. A memorial service will occur Monday, December 30, 2024 at 12:00 PM, 3308 N Main St, Hope Mills, North Carolina 28348. A burial with military honors will occur Monday, December 30, 2024 at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery, 400 Murchison Rd., Spring Lake, North Carolina 28390.