Christopher Nelson Sprinkle

Chris was the second child of five born to Nelson (Bruce) Elwood Sprinkle and Stella Mae Smith who preceded him in death; as well as his oldest sister, Marcia Sprinkle Carrol. His remaining siblings are Liza Tamer, Jeff Sprinkle and Stephanie Holcomb as well as seven nieces and nephews and two greats. He leaves behind son Christopher Nelson Sprinkle II (wife Rena and grandson Silas), son Ryan Sprinkle and Chris’ soulmate and support partner for over 30 years Rebecca Bishop.

Chris was a loyal Boy Scout and became Eagle Scout at the early age of 14. He graduated from North Forsyth High School in 1971, where as a student he served as the school bus driver for the neighborhood children, just like his mother Stella Mae did for over 25 years. Chris was handsome, friendly, and very popular. He had such a big magnetic personality that everyone gravitated towards him which led him to have many friends.

He briefly attended Appalachian State University before becoming the ranch manager for the Old Holler Farm in Rural Hall, N.C. He loved life on the farm and caring for over 200 head of cattle, pigs, horses and chickens. He was a hard worker and took ownership and pride in whatever he did. He later worked in the construction industry and became a member of the Boilermakers/Pipefitters Local Union.

Chris found joy fishing at the coast or any body of water for that matter. He was an outdoorsman that enjoyed time in nature, camping and sitting around the fire telling stories. He loved to share a happy story of adventures had or fun times enjoyed, often told with lots of laughter and animation. Chris had a big heart, that he shared with those close to him. He loved God with all his heart and had a deep relationship with Jesus Christ.

Chris left a handwritten excerpt from the poem “Let Me Go” by Christina Georgina Rossetti, to be shared upon his passing:

When I come to the end of the road, And the sun has set for me.

I want no rites in a gloom filled room, why cry for a soul set free?

Miss me a little - But not too long, and not with your head bowed low.

Remember the love and fun that we had once shared, Miss me but let me go

For this is a journey, which we all must take, And each must go alone

It’s all a part of the master’s plan, A step on the road to home.

When you are lonely, And sick of heart,

Go to family and friends we know, and bury your sorrows, In doing good deeds

Miss me but let me go.

A private service will be held to celebrate Chris’ life.

God of the mountain is God of the valley. In life and death we belong to God.