Chris Brill

(From Parker Mortuary)

Christopher Bruce Brill, age 38, Joplin, passed away on Monday, March 27, 2023 at his home after a sudden illness.

Chris was born September 6, 1984 in Joplin, and attended Joplin High School and Missouri Southern State University where he studied music. He was an accomplished drummer, playing in the drum lines of both the Joplin High School and MSSU Lion Pride Marching Bands. 

A highlight for Chris was marching in the Tournament of Roses parade during his high school years. He later was a member of the Royal Thunder Drum Corp where he performed at the Kansas City Royals home games. 

He worked for several companies in the Joplin area including nine years with BMI as a mailroom technician and also helped his stepbrother Greg Powell at Tactical Marketing. Chris was a bright light in this world who always showed kindness, compassion and humor to family, friends and strangers alike. His smile and gentle spirit will be missed by all those who knew him and cared for him.

Survivors include his mother, Judy (Johnson) Powell and husband David; father, Virgil Brill and wife Debbie; sisters, Becky Shaw and husband Brian, Sarah Vargyas and husband David all of Joplin; as well as many extended family members.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, March 31, 2023 at 1:30 p.m. at Celebration Church located at 13th and Duquesne with Pastor Brandon Dorris officiating. Interment will follow at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery with Greg Powell, Tony Broyles, Josh Zimmer, Brian Shaw, Al Romero, Travis Fink, Dave Pearson, Aaron Griffith and J.C. Burd serving as pallbearers.

The family will receive friends at Celebration Church on Friday from 12:30 p.m. until service time.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.