Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Christopher Mayer passes away

BRBTV has just learned from the fiancee of Christopher "Chip" Mayer that the actor died unexpectedly on Saturday evening. Catherine Irvine, whom Mayer was planning to marry next month, had been out of town shooting a new project when she received the news.

"I will be posting something as soon as I can find words, just wanted you to know," she tells us.

Born George Charles Mayer III on February 21, 1954 in New York City, Mayer became well-known as Vance Duke on "The Dukes of Hazzard" and T.J. Daniels on "Santa Barbara" and had a slew of other roles through the '90s. He was just coming back into the spotlight this year, doing appearances with his "Dukes" cousin Byron ("Coy") Cherry at the recent Johnny Cash Music Festival and the Hollywood Show in Burbank. He was 57.

BRBTV was thankful for the opportunity to speak with Chris a few weeks back about his work on "The Dukes of Hazzard" as well as "Santa Barbara." He was full of exuberance and a desire to get back out there and talk with fans after a long time under the radar. He talked freely about his faith, and we're thankful to know so surely that he is saved by God's grace. We certainly grieve over the untapped potential of his wonderful, joy-filled attitude -- the future experiences missed for both him and the "Dukes" fans -- and we are praying for comfort for his loved ones.

5 comments:

Cat said...

Thank you Billie Rae for this heartfelt message regarding Chris. He truly was such the love of my life..friends for over 30 years, with so much to give to the world, so much talent and heart. I will miss him forever and so will his family, I pray for Grace for all of us and am grateful to know that he is with God now! Catherine Irvine

BRBTV.com said...

God bless, Catherine.

R. Bucklely said...

I am deeply saddened to receive the untimely news that Chip Mayer has died. I, too, raised my family in Ridgewood, NJ, along with the Mayers and Chip, indeed, was a delight to know, as was the entire family. Chip could make anyone smile. My prayers for those near and dear to him, especially his beautiful and loving family... Chip will be sorely missed but never forgotten.

Chrissy and Josh said...

My wife and I very sad to hear this. We lived next to Chip and enjoyed talking to him as well as watching him play with our dog Maggie. If there is any info regarding a memorial service we would greatly appreciate it. Our most sincere condolences to Cat and his girls.

Chrissy and Josh

Pamela Newman said...

' Precious in the sight of the Lord are the death of His Saints. '
Chip loved the Lord. He talked about the Word of God and shared his faith freely with all those around him. His flesh became weak but the Spirit was willing.
Today Chip is with his Jesus .
No more tears , pain or suffering. He has been set free and is smiling again !
God Bless You Dear Catherine and to all of his Family and Loved Ones that are grieving.
One day we will see our Dear Chip
again. What a celebration that will be ! God Bless You All.
Love, Pamela Newman