As has been reported elsewhere on facebook Chris Williams passed away at his home earlier today.

Chris was one of the founders of the Southern Appalachia Railway Museum in Oak Ridge and was an incredible resource on virtually anything Southern Railway or regarding lightweight passenger cars. He and his partner Charlie Poling were often travelling mechanics on the 21st Century Steam Trains as part of the TVRM mechanical crew. Other ventures included Walden's Ridge Railroad and East Tennessee Railcar.

He was a frequent poster on this site using the name hayneshopcat.

The rail preservation world has just seen a bright light extinguished.

All of us here at TVRM will miss Chris. Our hearts go out to his family and all of those who were close to him.

Tim Andrews
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
Chattanooga, TN

Tribute from the official Norfolk Southern Facebook page, including photo (he's the one in the center):

https://www.facebook.com/norfolksouther ... =3&theater

So sorry to hear of Chris' sudden passing. Prayers go to his family and friends during this difficult time.