WATERBURY- It is with heavy hearts that the family of Mr. Christopher “Chris” Michael Pressley, age 53, of Waterbury, says farewell for now to our beloved husband, dad, grandfather, and friend, following his peaceful passing on Monday, October 26, 2026, at the West Haven VA Medical Center. He was the loving husband of Tammy L. (Bernacchi) Pressley.

Chris was born on January 9, 1973, in Cold Spring, New York, the son of Christopher Ballard and the late Louise Chestnut. He was raised in New York and where he developed a passion for cooking that led him through a career in various restaurants. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during 1996- 1998. In search of new beginnings, Chris moved to Waterbury, where he found a new home and the love of his life, Tammy. Together since 2001, they built a life together and got married in 2019. Chris was an avid fan of the New York Giants and the New York Yankees, his love for sports was matched only by his generous heart. He was always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need, especially his family, who will forever remember his dedication, support and kindness. He will be remembered for the life he lived, the love he shared, and the lasting impact he made on all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Besides his wife of 7 years, Tammy, left to honor and cherish his memory are his children: Marquis D. Ballard, Keyshawn C. Ballard and Elijah S. Ballard, and his step children: Neil Charbonneau Jr, Mike Bernacchi, Jessica Sanderson, Jeffrey Sanderson, Dominque Bernacchi, Kaitlyn Jones and Charles Jones Jr, He also leaves behind many grandchildren and other extended family members and beloved friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects during a graveside funeral service on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the State Veterans Cemetery, 317 Bow Lane, Middletown CT. Full military honors will be accorded Mr. Pressley by the U.S. Army. Casey’s Eastside Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Care 1987 East Main St Waterbury, CT 06705 has been honored to care for Chris and his family during this difficult time. In this time of reflection, the family welcomes all who knew and loved Chris to share messages of condolence, comfort, and cherished memories. Please visit the funeral home's tribute page at www.caseyfunerals.com to connect with the family or honor their loved one’s memory with floral arrangements and other gifts of condolence.