Christopher Brian Diller, 46, of Statesville, N.C., passed away at home unexpectedly on Saturday, October 25, 2025. Chris was born in Greenville, S.C., on July 11, 1979, to Brian Paul Diller and Syble Oceal (Williams) Diller.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Paul and Patricia Diller; and maternal grandparents, Bryan and Johnny Williams.

Survivors include his wife of 23 years, Lila Joy (Maxwell) Diller of the home; and two sons, Lucas Christopher Diller and Marcus Christopher Diller, of the home. He is also survived by his parents, Brian Diller and Syble Diller of Troutman. He is also survived by his in-laws, Johnie Lee Maxwell and Cynthia Sue (Pulver) Maxwell, and sister-in-law Rebecca Sue Maxwell of Notus, Idaho.

Chris was proud to be a nerd at heart. He enjoyed all kinds of games, especially strategy games like chess, Pokémon, and DND. He competed in chess tournaments in his high school years, winning several regional conventions. He graduated from Pensacola Christian College with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics. As an intelligent man, he enjoyed learning new things, especially in financial areas, stock trading, and investing in cryptocurrency. He had a wonderful sense of humor and always made everyone laugh, especially when he could see they were down. His love for mischief got him into “trouble,” but he never regretted instigating anything.

Chris was one of the kindest men. He left a legacy of a life well-lived for the Lord. He was a beloved and devoted husband, father, friend, and an incredible teacher at Cornerstone Christian Academy. He poured his heart and soul into everyone he loved, especially his students. He was the living embodiment of Proverbs 18:24: “There is a friend that sticks closer than a brother.” Though this verse is ultimately talking about Jesus, that’s who Chris tried to be like. His smile lit up the whole room, and his laughter was contagious. He truly lived up to the meaning of his name: “Christ-bearer.”

Funeral services will be conducted on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at 2:00 pm at Cornerstone Church. Pastor Caleb Griffith will officiate. A private committal will follow. The family will receive friends from 1:30 to 2 p.m. at the church before the funeral service.

Chapman Funeral Home is serving the Diller family.