March 9, 1966 – October 16, 2025
Christopher Shrewsbury passed away at home surrounded by loved ones on October 16, 2025, after a long illness.
He was born in Hinton, WV on March 9, 1966. Chris grew up in Beckley and graduated from Shady Springs High School. He attended Liberty University and served in the US Navy. He taught children with hearing impairment in NC and WV and operated his own business logistics services company.
Chris was preceded in death by his parents, Alvie and Mary Belle Charles Ward, and his brother-in-law, Donn Jarrell. He is survived by his wife, Jennifer Haskins Shrewsbury, and their son, Jason Shrewsbury of Durham, sister Beverly Jarrell of Roxboro, brother Dana W. Keith of Thailand, brother Johnathan Ward of Beckley, WV, niece Angel Braithwaite (Douglas) of Chapel Hill, nephew Joshua Jarrell (Meredith) of Morehead City, nephew Jonathan Ward II (Alexis) of Jacksonville, and beloved grand nieces and nephews.
Chris was passionate about his family and friends. If he roasted you, you knew he loved you. He was a man of faith. Chris fiercely believed in disability rights and accessibility and helped many institutions make changes to be able to welcome all bodies to participate fully in all that life has to offer. He loved science fiction, comics, and movies and was involved in a number of conventions around the Southeast, claiming friends there as “his people.” Chris was known for his quick wit and sharp sense of humor. He kept up the banter until his final days.
Honoring Chris’ wishes, a celebration of his life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Transitions Life Care Hospice at transitionslifecare.org/donate or support the work of Rocky Kanaka caring for rescue dogs at rockykanaka.com.
I only knew Chris from his Facebook posts in which he tagged his wife, Jennifer, my friend from college. But his humor, steadfastness in the face of challenges, affinity for comedy and cosplay, and very evident love for and devotion to his family shone through in each and every one. Jennifer, I know words can only do so much, but I hope you will find comfort in those shared here by people who loved Chris. You and Jason are in our hearts.
Of all the souls I've encountered in my travels his was the most human
I'm so glad I had the chance to know and love Chris. I will miss him. I hope we will laugh together again someday in the next life.
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