Chad, Audrey, Amelia Vandergriff

Audrey Rae Vandergriff

Born December 1, 2014 – Poplar Bluff, Missouri

Amelia Paige Vandergriff

Born November 23, 2018 – Poplar Bluff, Missouri

On the morning of September 23, 2025, Chad, Audrey, and Amelia Vandergriff tragically lost their lives in a house fire. Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we take comfort in knowing they are now in the presence of the Lord, embraced by eternal peace.

They leave behind Tabitha, Levi, and a wide circle of cherished family and friends whose lives they touched deeply. Chad was a loving husband and father who cherished his family with his whole heart. His greatest joy was found in being with his wife and children, and everything he did was rooted in the deep love he had for them.

Chad was a devoted member of his church, serving faithfully as a children’s ministry worker and a member of the security team. Audrey and Amelia shared his love for church, participating in Jam’d on Sunday nights and American Patriot Boys & Girls on Wednesdays. Their joy and energy were a blessing to all who knew them.

A hardworking entrepreneur, Chad ran a successful plumbing business yet always made time to serve others. His generosity was unmatched, often offering his services freely to those in need, never expecting anything in return. His heart was truly extraordinary.

Chad also found great joy in coaching youth sports, a passion he passed on to his daughters. Audrey was a spirited cheerleader, and Amelia, full of excitement, looked forward to joining her sister one day. Until then, she cheered from the sidelines with infectious enthusiasm.

Audrey loved being a cheerleader and enjoyed playing softball and soccer. She had a creative spirit and liked doing nails and making crafts. She cherished every moment spent with her family, “the cousins,” and her boyfriend, Oliver.

Amelia played soccer and Tee Ball and found joy in her baby dolls, her chickens, and the family’s cat and dogs. She wasn’t old enough to cheer yet, but she loved practicing alongside Audrey so she would be ready one day. She adored her family, “the cousins,” and her boyfriend, Ryker.

Their loss has left an indescribable void—not only within our family but across the entire community. The outpouring of love, support, and generosity has been profoundly moving. We are deeply grateful for every prayer, every kind word, and every act of compassion shown during this time. May God bless each of you for your unwavering kindness.

A Message from the Family

As we face this unimaginable loss, our family wishes to express our deepest gratitude for the overwhelming love and support shown to us. Your prayers, your presence, and your kindness have carried us through moments we never thought we could endure. Chad, Audrey, and Amelia were treasures in our lives—bright lights whose love, laughter, and faith will forever remain in our hearts.

Though our days ahead will look different, we hold tightly to the promise that God is near to the brokenhearted and that we will one day be reunited. Until then, we ask that you continue to keep our family in your prayers. May the love you have shown return to you a hundredfold.

With heartfelt appreciation,

The Vandergriff Family

Tabitha Vandergriff - Loving wife to Chad and Mother Audrey & Amelia

Levi Vandergriff - Son to Chad and Brother to Audrey & Amelia

Tony Vandergriff - Brother to Chad and Uncle to Audrey & Amelia

Beverly Kellems Kennon - Mother to Chad and Memaw to Audrey & Amelia