Christopher Moreland Abraham

Christopher Moreland Abraham, 62, of Tyler, Texas, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Dec. 5, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and laughter after a remarkable life of adventure and joy. Born and raised in Tyler Texas, Chris was charismatic and kind. At an early age, his grandmother taught him the importance of being a gentleman, and Chris heeded that lesson throughout his life. After graduating from Robert E. Lee High School (1980), he attended The University of Texas at Austin, where he was a proud member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. In the early 1990s, Chris ventured to Los Angeles to chase his dreams. He became a fixture of the entertainment scene, both on-screen and off. He appeared in an episode of “Cheers” and two episodes of “Coach” — stories he loved to share. But it was his time as a bartender and karaoke host at J. Sloan’s in West Hollywood that endeared him to so many. Known for his jolly spirit and larger-than-life presence, Chris’s karaoke nights became legendary. He also honed his craft with the Groundlings comedy troupe, performing alongside future stars like Lisa Kudrow. After almost 20 years in California, Chris began his transition back to Texas. While traveling back and forth, his older brother, Sterling, played matchmaker and introduced him to Roger Craig Gardner at The Hideaway bar and cabaret in Dallas. It was the start of a 24-year romance. Chris returned to Tyler to care for his beloved parents, bringing his big smile and vibrant spirit back home and ensuring that his family remained close-knit. He also became a fixture of the Thirteen Club Lake House, where his love for life, animals, and his family flourished. Chris’s devotion to his family was unwavering. He was a beloved uncle and great-uncle, a trusted brother and a loyal friend. He made friends and family feel seen and loved, and he took great pride in the roles he played in the lives of others. He was not only an actor, but a landman, producer and creator who brought passion to everything he did. Whether it was playing Atticus Finch in a production of “To Kill a Mockingbird” or producing “The Laramie Project, Chris was able to take on any role with a pride and a joy that captivated us all. He was a part of numerous plays and productions over the years, and his family looks forward to hearing stories from castmates and friends at his celebration of life. Chris was also known for his love of dogs, and leaves behind a beloved pack: Atticus, Buddy, Daisy, Blue, and Willie. He shared his home with his furry companions, and their unconditional love reflected his own generous heart. He was predeceased by his parents, Robert Sterling Abraham and Joyce Cox Abraham. He is survived by his partner, Roger Craig Gardner; his brother, Sterling Abraham, and Sterling’s partner, Mike Fulk; his sister, Carrol Abraham; his nieces, Amy and Anna; his nephews, Jack and Kirk; his great-niece, Annabelle; his great-nephew, Cooper; and an enormous community of loved ones who will forever cherish his memory. A celebration of Chris’s life will be held on March 30th, 2025, with details to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Nicholas’s Pet Haven in his memory. (https://www.nicholaspethaven.org/) . Chris was a man who brought light to the lives of those around him, and although he is no longer with us, his laughter and unforgettable spirit will remain in our hearts. It is a final curtain call for the greatest of them all.

Christopher Moreland Abraham

August 10, 1962 - December 5, 2024