Christopher Neill Reiger

Christopher Neill Reiger left this life on August 12, 2024, after a brief illness. He was born September 10, 1952 in Oklahoma City, to Claire (Neill) and Ralph Reiger, as a member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma.  Developing his love of art at an early age, Chris entered, and won, a juried art show at the then Cowboy Hall of Fame, in the Junior category. He continued his painting throughout his life, with his final exhibit in the Paseo Arts District of Oklahoma City, in 2008. Chris graduated from Casady School in 1970.  He attended Vanderbilt University, where he received a degree in Religion, in 1974. Throughout his life, he explored different religious philosophies, including Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, Native American, and was committed to a connection with the Divine. Upon his college graduation, he worked for the National Parks Department in Tennessee. He furthered his art and design interests at the University of Oklahoma School of Architecture, attaining his Master’s Degree. There he met the love of his life, Randa Masri. They graduated together in 1986. In 1988, Chris and Randa were married, and took off to see the world. They traveled extensively around India, China, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. Chris worked as an architect in Hong Kong. He volunteered his architectural talents at ashrams in a small village near Bombay, and Upstate New York. In 1994, they decided to settle, and returned to Oklahoma City, into a home and to continue their careers.  Chris worked for architectural firms in Oklahoma City, including Howard and Porch, ADG as well as his own company. Later, he did contract work for Rand Elliott Architects. He returned to ADG until his retirement in mid 2023. In 1994, their first son, August Andrew was born, followed by another son, Laithe Kindin, in 1999.  Their home was a true reflection of Chris’s talents as an architect and artist, where he handcrafted elaborately designed wood ceilings; crown moldings, bookshelves, furniture, and cabinetry, incorporating influences from the Middle East and India. Chris was an avid walker, going on daily miles-long walks. He enjoyed spending time with his family, and almost always had a smile on his face.

Chris was preceded in death by his parents, Claire Neill Reiger and Ralph Reiger. He is survived by his wife, Randa; son, Laithe; sister, Becky Foree, and husband, Carter; brother, Kurt Reiger, and wife, Cristi; and several nieces and nephews. Their son, August, has been missing since the summer of 2013.

A celebration of life will be held at the family home September 15, 2024 from 2:00pm - 4:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of your choice.