Tristan Samuel King

Tristan Samuel King, 28, of Fishersville, passed away on Thursday, May 15, 2025 in Waynesboro.

He was born in Wytheville, Virginia,  on December 31, 1996 to Cathi Coeburn Gardner and Jeffrey King.

Tristan was preceded in death by his grandparents: Jacqueline and Bill King, and Sam Coeburn; and his aunt, Karen King.

He is survived by his brother, Dylan; his sister, Gracyn; his parents, Cathi and Gerald Gardner, and Jeffrey King ; his partner, Logan Terrell; cousins;  Aunt Alisa; Uncle Fred; Uncle Michael; Aunt Shai; grandmother, Rosa Lee Coeburn; as well as extended family and close friends.

 Tristan graduated from Wilson Memorial High School, Class of 2015, and earned an associate’s degree from Blue Ridge Community College.

Tristan was passionate about sports, being a diehard Wahoo, Packer, Pacer, and AC Milan superfan. However, he was also a lover of the arts—a movie buff who could break down any film better than a Hollywood critic, and he always had a recommendation for every genre. Music was an important part of Tristan’s life with his musical taste ranged from Mötley Crüe to Brooks & Dunn to 2 Chainz. He was always sharing a new song he’d discovered—one that reminded him of you. He loved classic records and spinning them on his record player.

Tristan was a special person. He had the biggest smile and a joyful, distinctive laugh that you could recognize from across the room. Everyone who met Tristan has a story they remember him by—and love to reflect on. He shared a special bond with his Granny Jac, and much like her, Tristan played a meaningful role in the lives of those around him. He followed in her footsteps by showing up for his community, his friends, and his family—always with warmth, and an open heart. With his kind heart, he would help anyone in need, lend an ear to someone needing a friend, and always looked after his family. He’d do more than give you the shirt off his back—he’d offer you a place to stay, a bootlegger, and if you were lucky, a frozen pizza. Tristan was the most thoughtful and caring person, and the best gift-giver for every occasion. He was quick to tell you how he felt and was genuinely authentic.

Tristan loved with his whole heart, especially Logan, whom he called his soulmate and forever partner. He loved bragging about her and sharing their plans for the future. He cherished her dearly.

Dylan and Gracyn were not only his siblings but two of his best friends, he spoke with them every day. He truly was his momma’s baby and an incredible son. Tristan was lucky to have been raised with the love and support of two fathers—Jeffrey and his stepfather, Gerald, who each played a meaningful role in shaping the man he became.

Tristan was also a true cat lover. He joins his best friend, Saber, and leaves behind his sweet cats, Rocky and Quinn, who had recently begun to love him—maybe even more than his mother.

Tristan’s life was far too short, but it was filled with deep love, loud laughter, and unforgettable moments. He made every room brighter just by walking in. Though he has left this world, his impact lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at 1 PM at Charlton and Groome Funeral Home with Corey Smallwood officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to services at the funeral home.

Memorial Donations may be made in Tristan’s memory to the Rockingham SPCA, where he got a few of his beloved cats, www.rhspca.org/donate.

Share condolences and memories online with the family by visiting www.charltonandgroomefuneralhome.com.

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