Christopher (Chris) Layne Eagle

October 6, 1981 - September 19, 2021

Christopher (Chris) Layne Eagle was born October 6, 1981 in Farmington, New Mexico.  He passed from this life and was welcomed home by his savior on September 19, 2021 in Fort Myers, Florida.  Chris is survived by his son, Kaden of Cape Coral; parents, Lorna and Terry Eagle of Aztec, New Mexico; sister, Jennifer Navarro and children, Isabel and Joaquin of Brookings, Oregon; grandmother, Jean Rice of Farmington, New Mexico; as well as four uncles, three aunts and twenty four cousins and great cousins.

He is preceded in death by his younger brother, Travis Eagle; grandfather, Mendel Eagle; grandparents, Wally and Agnes Grey; great grandmother, Elizabeth Olson; grandfather, Willis Rice and brother-in-law, Tony Navarro; and uncle, Layne Grey. Chris was the first maternal grandchild and was dearly loved by all his family.

Due to Terry’s employment Chris attended school in Louisiana, Texas, California and New Mexico where he graduated from Aztec High School.  He was a member of the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts and experienced many outdoor adventures in Texas, California and New Mexico through their activities. There are so many great stories we could share about Boy Scouts but one favorite is when we lived in Monahans, Texas and he and his dad decorated a cake for a contest.  It was so beautiful that they were accused of buying it at the bakery. Later while in New Mexico his troop and his parents as sponsors were blessed to go to the well-known Philmont Boy Scout camp.

Chris was always involved in church and he confessed his faith and was baptized when he was 14 and he was active with the youth group wherever we lived. In high school he played golf earning an athletic letter. One of his favorite activities was participating in the debate team. Anyone who knows Chris, knows it’s was hard to win an argument with him. Kaden says he is stubborn, we agree. He always had a joke up his sleeve and he thought it was hilarious to be the very last of 500 graduates to walk across the stage as his family sweltered in the hot New Mexico sun.

He loved sports. He was an avid fan of the San Francisco 49ers, Chicago Cubs and Arizona Wildcats. As a young teenager he began umpiring little league baseball which led to his becoming a certified official in baseball, basketball and soccer in New Mexico and Florida.  He made many friends during his time on the field. He continued officiating until sustaining an injury to his right foot in 2018 that was not related to sports.

Kaden who will be 15 in a couple of weeks was the joy and focus of Chris’s life.  Everything revolved around what Kaden was doing and how he could help him be better. It was important to him to see that Kaden was active in church with his youth group, that he did well in school and that he was able to be involved in the sports he loves.  Chris went to great lengths to ensure Kaden got the extra training to help him improve his game. He loved that Kaden is playing instruments and he and grandpa took a day with Kaden to buy him a trumpet for his soon coming birthday. No father could be more proud of a son.  It was not possible to have a conversation without hearing Kaden’s most recent accomplishments.

He had a special bond with his Grandma Jean; she lovingly gave him the nickname Fido because he liked to tease her and give her a hard time. It was hard for him to get much on grandma because she gave it right back.  He also spent a lot of time with his Aunt Ronda and Uncle Larry when he was younger. She fondly refers to him as booger head and he accuses her of feeding him Spaghetti O’s all of the time.

While Mathew was living in Aztec, he and Chris spent a great deal of time together.  They were close in age and became friends beyond being cousins.  

For the past three summers, Chris and Kaden were able to meet his parents in New Mexico for an extended family gathering and then travel together to Brookings to spend time with Jennifer, Isabel and Joaquin. Chris always had a special bond with his Sissy and he quickly formed that bond with Isabel and Joaquin. He communicated with them often and they are very special to him.

Chris was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes when he was 15 and it was a lifetime battle for him.  The Bible says that God directs our paths and so it is no coincidence that Terry went to help friends in Louisiana after the hurricane and that when he finished earlier than expected, decided to drive to Florida since he was more than half way there. On Sunday (September 19) Chris was coaching Kaden’s recreational soccer team when he lost consciousness and after waking requested medical assistance. Terry called 911 and was present with Kaden when Chris was transported from the soccer field.  He was taken to Gulf Medical Center in Fort Myers where he underwent extensive medical procedures.  Terry and Kaden were present at ICU where CPR efforts were continuous for approximately 30 minutes until he was pronounced deceased from heart failure.

We would be remiss if we didn’t mention the First Baptist Church of Cape Coral. They reached out and helped Chris through a very hard time in his life. They were a God send and we have deep appreciation for the care and loving support Chris and Kaden received from them.

Having already buried one son this was a road we never wanted to travel again but with the faith from the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ we will move forward with the cherished memories of almost 40 years with Chris.

Celebration of life service will be held at 3:00 PM Saturday, September 25, 2021 at First Baptist Church of Cape Coral, 4117 Coronado Parkway, Cape Coral, FL 33904 with Pastor Jonathan Phillips officiating.

A celebration of life service will be held later in Aztec, New Mexico with graveside service in Cortez, Colorado.

Mullins Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Cape Coral, is entrusted with final care.

Guestbook

  1. Mike Karasek Sep 23, 2021 at 8:32 pm

    RIP Chris. Austin, Parker and I enjoyed reffing soccer games with you! Loved how you were 110% active in trying to do whatever you could to support Kaden through some tumultuous times for your family. God Bless.

  2. Sandra L Eagle Sep 23, 2021 at 8:45 pm

    This is such as beautiful story about Chris, my Fido’s life. He was my teasing buddy! We spent much time going back and forth trying to out doing each other. Will miss him dearly! I love you Fido!

  3. Sandy Eagle Sep 23, 2021 at 8:52 pm

    Well that comment was from mom, Grandma “Fido”.

    This was an amazing story! Chris will be missed! I wish we would have been able to spend more time with him! I know he isn’t struggling anymore and that brings me peace in my heart. Terry and Lorna’s you are in my prayers! Love you! Aunt Sandy

  4. Carl and Lori Sep 23, 2021 at 9:01 pm

    Terry, Lorna, Kayden-beautiful tribute to Chris! He was a very sweet man, always happy and full of life. We really never seen him a lot but when we do it was like he had known us forever! We want you all to know we love you all very much and wish we could be there. God Bless you all and Chris’ precious soul!

  5. Laura Sep 23, 2021 at 9:20 pm

    Dearest cousin, we didn’t know each as much as I would have liked but you always had and will have a place in my heart. You were a gift from god to your parents and just an amazing father. You laughter and jokes will be missed by all❤️

  6. Daniel Eagle Sep 23, 2021 at 9:31 pm

    That was a touching read. Some of it was public knowledge, and some, while known to others, was fresh to me. One thing that can’t be denied is the kindness that Chris always exuded, and his genuine care and concern for his family. Though we rarely talked directly, I felt connected to him through his communications with my wife, Amy. Maybe not understood by all, Chris was a God fearing (and loving) man, whose impact on this world and those who knew him was special and not trivial. His ending on this earthly plane is a reminder how short this life can be. May we all be reminded to reach out to one another, to make time even when we may not think we want to, to set aside differences, to prioritize those things that are truly important (like Chris did), and to pray. Pray to the one true God, for the health and healing of our families, this nation, and the world. Chris, we love and miss you, cousin, but know beyond a shadow of doubt where you are and the joy you are undoubtedly wrapped in. In Jesus name, amen.

  7. Deborah Eagle Sep 23, 2021 at 9:43 pm

    Rest in peace Chris. You made a difference to my life and I will miss you.

  8. Potsy Sep 23, 2021 at 10:48 pm

    Chris will be missed. His light hearted teasing of those around him brought joy to those around him.

  9. Alfred/Uvaughn Beall Sep 23, 2021 at 11:11 pm

    We will miss Chris’ visits as he always made us laugh. He was always asking questions about basketball officiating because he wanted to be the best he could be. Even with his medical conditions he was always jolly.

  10. Elaine Old Ohlbrecht Sep 24, 2021 at 10:43 am

    Beautiful telling of Christopher’s life well lived. If you were lucky enough to be a satellite in his orbit, you were truly blessed, especially if you were a member of the Eagle clan. His life made an impact on those who surrounded him with love. I smile to think of his reunion with Travis, Mendal, his maternal grandparents and those who have gone before, while at the same time I am sad for those left behind. Kaden is blessed to have his dad for a short time and Lorna and Terry were lucky enough to have Christopher choose them as parents. Fly like an Eagle, Christopher, into the arms of those who went before. Grief doesn’t have a time limit but what makes it bearable is know your loved one will be waiting for you when it is your time to soar.

  11. Gayla Sep 24, 2021 at 11:36 am

    Chris was a joyful funny man. It was obvious he loved his son more than anything. He will be missed by family and friends but left many funny antics for everyone to tell and keep him close to their hearts.

  12. Tifany Sep 24, 2021 at 1:52 pm

    I will miss our crazy little fights caused from teasing each other. He was a great friend and I will dearly miss him dearly.

  13. Devon Sep 24, 2021 at 3:24 pm

    Rest easy buddy! Sad to hear a friend passing. Always seen you on Saturdays when you were coaching here in Aztec, when my younger siinga were playing. Always had a minute or two to talk.

  14. Dottie Sep 24, 2021 at 3:42 pm

    Great fun guy. He was always “Rocky” to me. From When I 1st met him…had a shiner, thus the name I gave him…always kind,thoughtful and fun to be around

  15. Carlos and Stephanie Sep 24, 2021 at 5:02 pm

    May you RIP Chris always nice to visit with you!!! Kaden was very blessed with you. Prayers for Kaden and the rest of your family!!!

  16. karl Sep 24, 2021 at 5:16 pm

    you will be missed my friend!

  17. Robert (bob to chris) Garrison Sep 24, 2021 at 5:40 pm

    I’ve been thinking a lot about Eagle these last couple days. Like back in high school when he would make me get my grades up so I was eligible to go with him to the next golf tournament. Especially the out of town ones! Long bus rides were miserable. To giving him crap about the plays he called with my boys baseball games! To everything in between! Chris is a true friend, we’ve talked over the years. It seems like every time I had a bad day he knew and would hit me up, and the same the other way around! He fought his battles and loved Kayden! His son was his world! Eagle will be missed, by a lot of people! This guy just lit up the room when ever he was there!

  18. Matt Geiss Sep 24, 2021 at 5:45 pm

    Wish you all the best. Chris had a great heart and it was a privilege to have him as a friend. God Speed, brother

  19. Colt kalcich Sep 24, 2021 at 5:46 pm

    So sorry. God bless!

  20. Mary Davis Sep 24, 2021 at 5:55 pm

    Terry I’m so sorry to hear of your family’s loss. All will be in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless.

  21. Sarah (Lee) Mangum Sep 24, 2021 at 6:42 pm

    I am very sad to hear this. Chris was a constant figure in Aztec Baseball when we were growing up. He never failed to catch crap (mostly in poking fun) from my Gram to the point where she would come sit down and he would tell her with a smile now here’s your warning. Chris you will be missed by so many and give my Gram a warning and hug for me ❤️

  22. Tasha Sep 25, 2021 at 1:33 am

    Oh Christopher. You are the best! Always knew how to make you laugh and just make you smile. Such a great person. I know you are sitting up there watching all of us down here and cracking your jokes! Until I can laugh with you again…..give heaven hell!

  23. Sara Anderson Sep 25, 2021 at 12:50 pm

    Chris was an umpire for my son thru high school ball. We loved having him there. He was so fun and loving and always razzing the kids. He touched a lot of San Juan county kids lives. He was loved. He definitely has a legacy. We will miss you chris.

  24. John Sep 25, 2021 at 10:26 pm

    So sorry for this news Chris will always be an inspiration as a friend and a father. He is one of the most sincere souls I ever had the privilege to know

  25. Mike and Cindy Colson Sep 26, 2021 at 5:27 pm

    Mike and I are so sorry to hear of the loss of Chris. I am so thankful that you were sent there to be with him, Terry. We will keep all of you in our thoughts and prayers.

  26. Autumn Nichols Sep 26, 2021 at 6:57 pm

    Chris was such a delightful young man to teach. He was so mature for his age. I was blessed to teach him in the first grade and be a part of his family while they lived in Monahans. I was blessed to know them all. May God be with you during the days ahead until we all meet again in heaven.

  27. Jessica Sep 26, 2021 at 9:35 pm

    So sad to hear this news. Although i haven’t seen Chris in person in years, i enjoyed his commentary on fb posts. My heart and prayers go out to his son and family. You will be missed Chris

  28. Dion Hazen Sep 26, 2021 at 11:40 pm

    I just heard the news and it broke my heart. My condolences to his family and friends. He was one of my favorite people through high school and after and I remember having a few small talks with him during little league. I’m sure I missed the “Celebration of Life” ceremony, but I sure would have loved to have been there. I’m sure gonna miss him.

  29. Pam Sep 27, 2021 at 1:46 pm

    I’m so sorry that you lost Chris. My heart goes out to all of you who knew & loved him & will always remember what a wonderful person he was. God bless you all.

  30. Phermond Begay Oct 3, 2021 at 5:36 pm

    Rest in paradise homie . 😢 you will be missed .

  31. Ashley Maxwell (Wethington) Oct 5, 2021 at 6:00 pm

    I was blessed with playing golf in high school with Chris. He played for Aztec and I was on the Kirtland team. We often shared buses to travel to tournaments. He had an amazing laugh and kept our trips entertaining. His smile would light the room. I’m so sorry for your lose. Please know he had a great impact on everyone he met in life.

  32. freeman l green jr Oct 27, 2021 at 9:52 pm

    It sadden my heart to hear that my friend was called home to be with the Lord..
    My condolences goes out to the family.

  33. John & Vicky Clark Oct 31, 2021 at 4:18 pm

    Lorna, Terry & family, we are very sad to hear that you lost Chris. Although we never knew him, he must have been a true blessing for all that did. Know that you’ve been in our prayers & will continue to be so as healing takes time & your memories will help you through. God’s blessings being sent.

  34. Betty Damon Jan 16, 2022 at 10:33 pm

    I so sorry to learn of Chris passing. Our deepest condolence to you, his son, his families and extended relatives. Chris was apart of our family when he was in high school. He was a great young man and a wonderful friend to my sons. Rest In Peace Chris. Your in your Heavenly Father home and arms.

  35. James Schwartzburg Jun 20, 2022 at 8:34 pm

    I got to know and became friends with Chris through umpiring in Cortez and Farmington. He had a great sense of humor and we spent a lot of time laughing, mostly at each other. My condolences to his family.

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