Christopher Lyn “Chris” Royce, 76, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on August 25, 2026, in Oxnard, California, after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Chris was born on November 11, 1949, to Richard and LaVerne Royce. He attended Adolfo Camarillo High School, graduating in 1967. He earned a doctorate in biology from New Mexico State University and a teaching credential from California Lutheran University. Chris spent most of his career teaching science at Santa Paula High School until his retirement in 2016.
Chris is survived by his wife of 55 years, Kathleen; children Anne, Christina (and her spouse, Forrest), and Eric; sister Cindy and her spouse, Terry; brother Roy; and grandchildren Sean and Katelyn. He was preceded in death by parents Richard and
LaVerne; and siblings Carol, Randall, and Ashley.
We are deeply saddened by Chris’s passing but will always remember how he enriched our lives.
A small private memorial will be held soon.
Donations in remembrance of Chris may be made to:
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
1212 Mission Canyon Road
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Arrangements are under the direction of the JOSEPH P. REARDON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE, Ventura.