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Chris was a man of contrasts—a grumpy grin masking a kind heart, quick to tease yet quicker still to help.

James Christopher "Chris" Parton, known affectionately as Chris to many who loved him, left us all too soon on June 23, 2026, in his hometown of Knoxville, Tennessee. Born on November 2, 1970, in Knoxville, he spent his entire life in the loving embrace of the community and family that shaped and strengthened him. His passing was as sudden as it was heartbreaking—after fighting an illness for at least a week, he was lost to us after two seizures At just 55 years old, we are left grappling with a profound loss, searching for answers, and yearning for just one more moment with the man whose presence meant so much.

Chris lived a life that was as rich and varied as his laughter. For nearly 35 years, he shared a steadfast and loving partnership with his wife, Shawna, walking side by side through the joys and challenges of life. Together, they built a legacy rooted in loyalty, humor, and hard work. Shawna’s words capture the depth of their bond: “Chris was an amazing man. Gone too fast—we were together almost 35 years and of course, I don't know what my life will look like from here on out, but... I do know that he'll be watching over all of us. And he is also loved and missed so very much.”

He leaves behind his beloved daughter, Hailey, with whom he shared countless everyday moments. One of his joys was playfully sharing time with his cherished grandson, Weston Lee, their laughter filling the house, building memories that will last for generations. Chris was also the son of Brenda and Ralph Parton, and the brother of Venus Parton, whose lives he touched profoundly. Jan Parton, his sister-in-law, remains among the family whose bond with Chris was built on shared history and affection.

Professionally befor retiring, Chris found fulfillment as a Lawn and Landscaping Professional. He was known not only for his expertise but also for the care he invested in every project—a reflection of his approach to life, always seeking to grow, nurture, and beautify the world around him. He cherished time outside, whether tending a garden, casting a line at his favorite fishing hole, exploring farmers markets for the freshest finds, or advising others on how to make the most of THEIR landscapes. At home, Chris enjoyed cooking meals with his wife and found simple happiness in painting by numbers, losing himself in the calming rhythm of color and creation.

Beyond his work and hobbies, Chris’s greatest pride came from overcoming one of life’s hardest challenges: his sobriety. He worked tirelessly to free himself from the grips of addiction, and in doing so, inspired everyone who witnessed his courage. As his family so perfectly says, “He was very proud of his sobriety—12 years now an he worked hard to get out of that hold and we were ALL so very proud of him.”

Chris was a man of contrasts—a grumpy grin masking a kind heart, quick to tease yet quicker still to help. Taking care of his family and friends was his highest calling. He extended kindness to strangers, always pausing to see how he might help. Chris’s warmth and generosity were pillars in the lives of those who knew him.

Funny him because even Though he often protested that he was NOT a "cat person," his beautifully devoted relationship with Ms. Jenny, his first cat, said otherwise. The daily rituals he shared with her became a favorite story, one that drew smiles and laughter from anyone who visited.

Even in ordinary days, Chris’s love for his family glowed brightest. Watching him with Weston was a joy—his playful enthusiasm, gentle encouragement, and routine banter. with Hailey he would ask about the evening’s cooking plans but it honestly filled his life.  These are the moments that will echo in the hearts of those left behind.

Today, we honor the life of James Christopher "Chris" Parton—a hard-working, fiercely loving husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend. There is a space left now, one that cannot be filled. But in the stories we tell, the laughter he inspired, and the gardens that continue to bloom, Chris’s legacy endures.

No plans as of yet for services but if anything changes in the future we will let it be known.