CHICAGO, IL—Chef James Christopher “Chris” Kuykendall, passed away suddenly at the age of 32 on Monday, August 7, 2023. Though he left this world far too soon, he left this world a better place.
Chris was born January 1, 1991, and raised in Wicomico Church. He most recently lived in Chicago, Ill.
Chris is survived by his loving cat, Smudge; mother and stepfather, Madelene and Kenny Cutting; father and stepmother, Kenny and Andrea Kuykendall; brother and sister-in-law, Lee and Morgan Kuykendall and nephew, Carter Kuykendall; uncles, Tommy Barrett and his husband, Richard Krach, and Kevin Kuykendall and his wife, Lynn; maternal grandmother, Janice Barrett; and paternal grandparents, Rick and Judy Jones. Chris cherished his role as Godfather to Madison Killion, as well as many, many other loving family members.
Chris was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Mac Barrett; paternal grandparents, Don and Ella May Kuykendall; and his aunt, Kathy Murfield.
Christopher graduated from Lancaster High School in 2009 and completed The Marine Technician Program at Marine Mechanics Institute in 2011. Christopher then completed an associate degree with a major in culinary and pastry arts at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College in 2017. Chris went on to complete The Colonial Williamsburg Culinary Apprenticeship Program in 2018.
Following completion of his apprenticeship, Chris moved to Chicago to pursue his passion in kitchens across the city. Chris excelled in the world of fine dining at The Union League Club, Edgewood Valley Country Club and Sunda. In 2021 Chris became a Certified Culinarian with The American Culinary Federation. In January of 2023, Chris accepted a position as an executive chef consultant with Mootz Consulting, which allowed him to travel across the country, sharing his incredible personality and love of the culinary arts everywhere he went.
Christopher was a kind and loving soul with a caring and generous spirit. Chris had a warm and friendly personality that always put others at ease. Chris was passionate about his work as a culinary artist, and nothing made him happier than cooking for family and friends.
Visitation for family and friends will be held from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, August 17, at Currie Funeral Home in Kilmarnock, VA
A celebration of Christopher’s life will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, August 18, at Currie Funeral Home, proceeding to Wesley Presbyterian Church in Weems for his burial. Please join us for a reception in the Fellowship Hall immediately following interment.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Kuykendall Memorial Scholarship Fund at Wesley Presbyterian Church in honor of Christopher, 70 Faith Circle, Weems, VA 22576