Christopher Taylor Kays was a guy who really knew how to tell a good story. His own story, the story of his life ended on September 2, 2024, in Red Oak, IA

Chris was born February 16, 1972, in Belleville, Illinois, and grew up in Staunton, Illinois, from age six. Upon graduating from Staunton High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force serving in a rapid runway repair squadron. Following his military discharge, he passed through several jobs until he began working for Zimmerman Equipment erecting and repairing tower grain dryers throughout the eastern two thirds of the U.S. He also worked in Turkey supervising dryer building crews there. In 2012 Chris established his own grain dryer repair company as owner/manager. In three years, unfavorable economic conditions in his industry led to his company's closure. Chris then trained to be an over-the-road trucker. He spent three years behind the wheel as both a driver and new driver trainee before illness set in.

Chris was a jolly, hale, mountain of a man who could engage in conversation with anyone. Indeed, he was a great storyteller who even took the stage a few times at comedy clubs on open mic nights. As a keen movie buff, he could offer accounts in surprising detail about nearly any film he had ever seen. As a veteran of the Staunton High School Football Bulldogs, he maintained an avid interest in professional football throughout life. Having worked making pizzas in high school, he continued honing his craft mastering the perfect thin crust for his signature fettuccine alfredo pizza.

Chris is survived by his four children: Krystal Kays of Ogden Utah; Kirsten Kays of Little Rock, AR; Kevin O. Kays and Aleyna P. Kays of Staunton; parents Kevin E. Kays and Audrey S. Kays; a younger sister: Julia E. Kays; and younger brother and sister-in-law: Clark V. Kays and Kimberly (Cuppett) Kays. He had three granddaughters: Oakley Ann Kays, Presley Lou Bramwell, (mother Krystal); and Grey Emmalyn Kays (mother Kirsten). He leaves behind his beloved partner of six years, Tammi Redd of Coburg, IA; Tammi's children: Cassandra Redd of Elliott, IA; Jessica Redd-Bernard of Coburg, IA; and Emma Redd of Eagle Grove, IA; and grandchildren: Sophia, Liam, Paisley, and Grayson.

There will be no funeral services. Instead, there will be a remembrance and celebration of Chris' life in Staunton, IL at the VFW on Henry St. on October 20, 2024, from 1:30 to 3:30.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the American Cancer Association.