WILMINGTON — Born in Flint, Michigan, Kris attended Glendora High School in California and later the University of Wisconsin- Whitewater, where she received a Business Administration degree in Marketing. She then made her home in North Carolina, where she found her greatest joy near the ocean. She loved Wrightsville Beach and delighted in sharing that experience with her family and friends. Hosting visitors- especially for family vacations and holiday celebrations- brought her immense happiness, and the memories she created will be cherished forever.
Kris is survived by her children, Melissa (Alex) Midkiff and Matthew Scheppmann; her stepfather, James Michael Best; her sisters, Julie Pyscher Fellinger of Newark, Delaware, and Jennifer Pyscher Fineran of Madison, Wisconsin; and many extended family members and dear friends who will miss her deeply. She was preceded in death by her mother, Nancy Ann (Petty) Best.
A gifted artist and potter, Kris found purpose and joy in expressing her creativity. For many years, her beautiful pottery and artwork were featured in local galleries and art shows. Her passion for the craft extended beyond her own creations. She established a pottery studio that became a welcoming gathering place where fellow artists could learn, create, and share their love of pottery.
Kris’s legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Though she is no longer with us, the beauty she created, the lives she touched, and the love she shared will remain forever.
The immediate family will gather for a private memorial service in Wisconsin. A larger celebration of life with extended family and friends is being planned for June 2027 in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, where all who loved her will be welcome to join.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Friends of the Leland Cultural Arts Center, PO Box 90, Leland ,NC 28451 supporting scholarships and art programs in honor of Kris’s lifelong love of pottery, art, and creative community. Memorial donations can also be made to Lower Cape Fear Lifecare of Wilmington, NC, whose team was so caring and compassionate during Kris’s last few days of life.
