Chris Rudy Melfi

Chris “Baws” Rudy Melfi, age 74, of Athens, passed away on Sunday, January 4th, 2026, surrounded by love. Chris was a loving husband and father, a proud grandfather, a supportive brother, cousin, uncle, and a loyal friend.

Chris was born in Columbus, Ohio on November 19th, 1951 to Millard and Bertie Melfi, where he joined his older brother, Steve, and would later become a big brother to his little sisters, Cindy and Peggy.

Chris lived a full life defined by curiosity and his connection to nature. An artist at heart, he was also a musician and songwriter who loved guitar and harmonica. He was the best storyteller, shown through the stories he told his loved ones and the novel he wrote. He loved to tell ornery jokes that would catch you off guard and leave you laughing long after. He was a true hippie, with an easy grin and a way of making people feel at home simply by being himself. He spent his free time with nature, often hitchhiking throughout various parts of America. He found more than one way to connect with nature, as he was a cannabis connoisseur. He took pride in his Irish and Italian roots and would often remind the world that he was a “Melfi” to show his strength.

Chris was preceded in death by his father, Millard and his mother, Bertie. He is survived by his wife, Kathy, his children, BoRaini (Chris) and Johnny, his step children, Nora and Bessie, and his grandchildren, McKenna (Kyle), Jayce, and Magnolia.

Above all else, Chris will be remembered for his warmth, his creativity, his humor, and the love he shared.

A benefit will be held at Casa Nueva (6 W. State St. Athens, OH 45701) on Saturday, January 10th at 10:00pm. A celebration of life will occur at a later date.

“Let the mind wonder and bring back the details.”—Chris Melfi

Arrangements were entrusted to Hughes Funeral Home of Athens where you may sign the online guestbook or leave the family a message of sympathy at www.ehwfh.com.