Big Stone Gap, VA – Chris Lee Haverly, 69, passed away on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. He was born on April 2, 1956 to William E. and Mittie Christine (Ramey) Haverly, Sr. He had lived in Highsplint, KY, Evarts, KY, Appalachia, VA and Big Stone Gap and was a 1974 graduate of Appalachia High School in Appalachia, VA.
Chris was the owner of Tri-State Animal Rescue and selflessly saved the lives of over 14,000 animals. He was an avid fan of drag racing, NASCAR, the University of Kentucky’s football and basketball teams and was an excellent photographer.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Chris is survived by his brothers, William E. Haverly, Jr. and Donald R. Haverly, Sr. of Indianapolis, IN; nephews, William E. Haverly, III and Donald R. Haverly, Jr. of Indianapolis, IN, and many friends.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 7, 2026 from 11:00am-1:00pm at Gilliam Funeral Home, 618 Wood Ave. W., Big Stone Gap, VA. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 1:00pm with Chris’ second cousin, Pastor Bradley Guyn, officiating.
There will be a private family graveside service at Powell Valley Memorial Gardens after the visitation with Pastor Bradley Guyn officiating.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the friends and family of Chris Haverly.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com.