Obituary
Christopher Iannello

Christopher (Chris) Scott Iannello, 52, of Raleigh, NC, passed away on Sunday, September 29th after a sudden illness. A life-long, devoted Bills fan, Chris was born in Buffalo, NY on January 26, 1972 to Francis (Frank) and Sue Iannello. He grew up in Orchard Park, NY and was an outstanding, record-setting volleyball player at Hamburg Highschool. He went on to graduate from Hilbert College with a degree in Business.  In 1999, he met the love of his life, Early Lynn Easley, during the Great Guinness Toast (an annual worldwide event that happens on the third Friday of February) at Tir Na Nog in downtown Raleigh. They were married for 23 amazing years and have 4 incredible children: Aidan (21), Pierce (19), Jonah (17) and Viktoria (13).  In addition to being survived by his parents, wife, and children, Chris leaves behind two younger brothers, Jacob Iannello and Nicholas Iannello (Jennifer); two nieces, Devyn Lister and Olivia Iannello; and two nephews, Finley & Nolan Iannello. Chris had a very successful career – becoming the top performing Account Specialist in the nation at Merck, where he was the Rare Disease Account Specialist for the Raleigh territory. He also served on their Leader Listen Group, which is made up of select account specialists who share feedback directly to the VP of the Rare Disease Business Unit. Chris was well-respected and highly thought-of at Merck, known for proactively reaching out to support teammates and colleagues. He was always the first to volunteer and championed a positive “can do” attitude. Never one to sit still, Chris enjoyed cycling and was also an avid boater. He also loved spending time with all his children 4-wheeling on their ATVs. Chris was very involved in all aspects of his community, whether in his neighborhood or at his church. The past few years, he and Early have been active members of Church Alive in Fuquay Varina, encouraging their family, friends, and neighbors to seek the glory of God. Chris enjoyed his time as a Band of Brothers Ministry member – a brotherhood focused on Christ with a desire to leave a legacy of eternal meaning. Chris was well known for being funny, quick-witted, reliable, and simply a kind, loving, and giving man.  He was always willing to step up and help out anyone in need.  He had a habitual tendency to offer a joke, hug, or kind words of encouragement to others. Chris will forever be remembered for his unconditional love, strength of spirit, and unending generosity, but most importantly, he will be remembered for his devout faith in God everlasting. We know he has taken up residence in Heaven to convert as many souls as he can to become Bills and Tragically Hip fans. We will surely all hear a great roar from above when the Bills win their next game.  The family would like to thank the nurses and medical staff at UNC Chapel Hill for their dedication and support during such a difficult time. There will be a visitation at 6 p.m. on Thursday, October 3rd and a celebration of life service at 2 p.m. on Friday, October 4th.  Both events will be held at Edenton Street United Methodist Church in downtown Raleigh. Friends are welcome to bring a printed photo of Chris that they would like to add to a photo collage that will be set up in the foyer of the church.  In lieu of flowers, the family would like friends to consider making a donation to help their children’s educational dreams come true. To make a contribution, visit https://gift.my529.org/N1FGPC.