Kristian Diego Budd-Alston

Thinking about him this month. I didn’t get to know him very well but he would be photographing at our volleyball games and he always showed me his best shots of me on the court. I got to tour him around the High Museum and afterwards, whenever he saw me in the halls, he’d ask me when the next event at the museum was. I’ll always appreciate his enthusiasm and thoughts for others, and I’ll cherish the moments I got to spend with him.

We are heartbroken and cannot imagine the grief that you are experiencing for the loss of Kristian. We are praying for your entire family during this difficult time. 🙏🏽🕊️

Kris meant so much to me. I worked with him at Camp Cosby in Alpine, AL this past summer, and having him as a friend and someone to talk to was everything to me. We would watch Marvel movies and Remember the Titans on break, jamming to the music or arguing on our Marvel takes. I’ll miss you Kris. Fly High.

Kristian's footprints remain on the earth. May they form a path for each of us.

My favorite memory is when Kristian first started at Drew. I was on my way to work and saw Kristian talking to a neighbor who lives past the neighborhood on Glenwood. I knew school would be starting soon and pulled in the median to let him know he would be late and I could give him a ride. The neighbor was so apologetic. She said she saw his baseball gear and remembered when she played softball in high school and got a bit carried away. He jumped in the car and I got him to school. But on the way I told him sometimes us old folk get carried away reliving our youth so thank you for being so gracious and letting her re-live that moment…now run in the building so you won’t be late! He was so gracious and kind. I miss him seeing him everyday. It really was a bright spot in the day. Much love to you Kristi, Madeline, Olivia, family and friends.

Dear Kim and family,

I am so sorry for the loss of this dear person.
Sandi

Reading about Kristian is itself a gift .. a beautiful boy walked this earth. His footprints remain, and guide.
His

Kristian was like a stepson to me. When he was little, he loved to play with remote control cars and build train tracks, and as he got older we loved visiting amusement parks and riding roller coasters together. We also loved attending Atlanta sporting events together, including Braves, Falcons, and Hawks games. Kristian loved all the Atlanta teams. But by far, our favorite was Georgia Tech games. We went to so many football games & basketball games over the years. Kristian loved GT. He was always so happy at those games. And we would be elated when we won and disappointed when we lost. He had so many GT football and basketball jerseys and hats. I coached many of Kristian’s basketball teams when he was younger. I was there when he scored his first basket in a game. He loved basketball and baseball. Kristian loved people.

Kristian was beloved in my Alabama community when he visited. My neighbors adored Kristian. He walked their dogs, helped them with tasks, or just went to visit with them. Whether it was driving the boat, riding around on a jet ski, or tubing, he loved it all.

As I write this, tears are in my eyes. Kristian was a joy in my life–my family loved him dearly, and he adored them. Kristian cared deeply about people. He was so concerned about others. He was an amazing young man. I will never forget Kristian. I loved him dearly. I miss him every day. He was a bright light in my life. He brought me much joy. One thing I can tell you about Kristian, he was the kindest, most respectful kid I have ever been around.

Brian Domalik

Kris was one of the most amazing souls I have ever known. From being one of his camp counselors at YMCA Camp Cosby in 2023 to becoming one of my best friends, Kris always made my life so much better. He always knew how to make me laugh, smile, feel cared about, and so much more. We always joked around, talked to each other everyday, argued over sports (his passion for ATL sports was unmatchable!), and just loved to have each other around all the time. He was like a little brother to me and I am so glad I was able to be apart of his life. He’ll always have a special place in my heart. LLK.

Kristian was one of my son Richard’s first friends in our neighborhood. A highlight of our first visit to what would become our home occurred when I was awaiting the realtor and Biko invited Richard to play football with the neighboring kids at the park near the gazebo. He was elated!

During football, Rich met Kristian and so many others. They played for hours and then wanted to walk to the store. Rich begged to go, but I was reluctant. By then, I had been introduced to Kristi who introduced me to her beloved Kristian who stepped in and assured me that they would look out for him. My intuition let me know that I could trust them (him), and I am so glad that I did.

At the store, Rich wanted cupcakes but didn’t have money. Kristian came to the rescue and bought them for Rich. That small gesture meant the world to the new younger kid on the block! Inclusion made him feel a strong sense of belonging and made my decision to buy the house easy. On many occasions, Kristian encouraged Rich with words of wisdom and affirmation, and even offered to take him to basketball games.

Kristian apparently learned from his mother that we must be mindful of the little things because one day we might realize that they mattered most. We are eternally grateful for Kristian’s generosity and kindness. The memories remain so cherished that Rich went to get Kristi the same type of cupcakes to share our condolences. I am so glad that I (we) trusted Kristian on first meeting. He was that kind of person. They forged a bond that brightened Rich’s countenance every time we saw Kristian walk by.

We love you, Kristi. Thank you for sharing Kristian with us all — he will always be present in our hearts. We are praying and holding space for you and your daughters. 🙏🏾🤲🏾🙏🏾

We met Kristian in 5th grade when my son, Kris, started in Brian & Dan’s class at Paedia. Kris was reserved and introverted, and it was Kristi who introduced our boys. From that moment on, they became fast friends. Though Kris left Paedia after 6th grade, they stayed connected through social media.

Our family will never forget the kindness that Kristi, Kristian, and their family showed us. Kristian was a warm jovial natural leader—always lifting those around him. We are better for having known him, and his spirit will forever remain in our hearts.

I have many fond memories of Kristian. He was hired as a temporary worker for the PGA Tour at East Lake Golf Course, and his exceptional work ethic quickly set him apart. The company was so impressed that they requested him by name to return for the remaining days—a true testament to his dedication, energy, and personality.

As a new teacher at Drew, Kristian made me feel welcome from day one. He always greeted me by name, asked how my year was going, and somehow knew when I needed a smile. His kindness and warmth made a lasting impact.

Not long ago, I told Kristian that I hoped my son would grow up to be like him—poised, confident, and able to speak in front of large audiences with ease. Public speaking is a rare skill, yet he made it look effortless. I’m so grateful that I had the chance to tell him personally how phenomenal he was during Drew Charter’s coronation ceremony. He had a natural ability to command a room with grace and confidence.

Kristian’s presence will truly be missed, but his legacy of warmth, charisma, and excellence will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

I have many fond memories of Kristian, from his first wobbly baby steps to his racing across the field as his team won the Cross-Age Relay. Kristian taught me how to be a dad before my own kids came along, and he continued to fill our family with brotherly love after “Kristian’s room” became “Javi and Joaquín’s room.” Javi’s first word was “Ka,” which meant Kristian.

The following is a more recent memory I haven’t yet shared. Not too long ago he was driving me down Glenwood Ave when there was a traffic slowdown near Publix. As we got closer we saw a car stopped in the right lane with the driver’s door open wide. The rear hatch was up and groceries had spilled out the back. Cans of cola were rolling in the street. In my mind I was just starting to think “Oh, I bet the hatch wasn’t fully closed before that person drove out into traffic, I wonder if they need help,” when I realized that Kristian had already pulled over and was getting out of the car to help. I hurried to follow him, bursting with pride at how he’d jumped into action to do the right thing while I was still stuck in my head. We both helped the driver scoop up the groceries, and I was a little annoyed that the driver said “thanks” to me and not to Kristian, who had actually done most of the work! When we continued our drive I told Kristian how proud I was of him, and how annoyed I was at the driver. He gave me a little smile and said something like “We’re all doing the best we can.” That may be true for most of us, but I still think Kristian consistently went above and beyond.

We miss you and we love you, Kristian.

At a total loss for words. You were in my first class in the Ocean room at the Frazer Center. The cutest, most helpful, kind and kindred spirit. Always wanting to help and participate. So proud of your journey. I will never forget you. Sending Hugs and Prayers♥️

It has taken me almost 2 weeks before I could sit down to share my thoughts about Kristian.
This amazing and beautiful young man…
Ripped away from us all…
I’m still crying as I write these words, so flooded with emotions…

I first met Kristian when I had the privilege of being his baseball coach at Medlock Park, where he played alongside my youngest son Aidan.
What Kristian lacked in actual on-field experience, he more than made up for in his focus and dedication to becoming the best baseball player he could be. He was the kind of kid that all of us coaches dream about- he wanted to carry the team on his back! He strove to achieve and be his best and do his best, but NEVER at the expense of others. He always strove WITH his teammates. And for his teammates. He made all the other boys around him better. He was a leader. Even if he wasn’t the top player on the team, he put his ego aside to be there for his teammates. His booming voice of encouragement to others was a constant companion to us all. Whether our team was at bat or in the field, he congratulated each player for any positive contributions they made, and he consoled and lifted up his teammates for any less-than-helpful plays or strike-outs. It wasn’t cheerleading. It was so much deeper and heart-felt than that. When Kristian was around, everyone felt better: lifted up, a little, more confident, happier. He was a true leader.

I think of Kristian as a force of change. He had the qualities of integrity, empathy, and an inner compass that directed his path. I used to drive Kristian home from practices, and I loved listening to Kristian and Aidan talking about sports, our team, and life. Every parent who has ever had the opportunity to be a fly on the wall as their kid gets deep into conversation with their friend knows that they are receiving a priceless gift. The way they spoke with both insights and respect of fellow players was so genuine. I was so happy for Aidan to get some of Kristian’s energy as they warmed up in the backseat on the way home from a cold night on the baseball field. Kristian was exactly the kind of friend I wanted to support Aidan to be around. Not just because they had in common their love for talking about and watching and playing sports. It’s always wonderful for our boys to find common ground. But so much more than that, it was Kristian’s authenticity, kindness and articulation that spoke, and I know it spoke to Aidan too. He also cherished his friendship with Kristian.

A day has not gone by that I haven’t thought of Kristian. I will forever deeply miss this magical young man, and we all know that the world had been robbed of seeing all of the positive force he was about to unleash on the world. I want to believe that every time a boy at Medlock Park shouts words of support and encouragement to his fellow team mate at bat, Kristian will hear it and his beautiful smile will shine down on us all.

In my Jewish faith, we honor those who have passed with the Hebrew “zichrono livracha”, which translates to ‘may his memory be a blessing”. In his short life, Kristian was a blessing to us all, and his memory will absolutely continue to be so.

We care deeply.

I remember meeting him by chance in an art class—his energy was magnetic, the kind of presence you don’t forget. Later in engineering, he stood out even more, tackling challenges with a drive and creativity that inspired everyone around him. His brilliance wasn’t just in what he did but in how he made people feel—seen, valued, energized.

This loss is heavy, almost too heavy to carry, and the world feels dimmer without him in it. It’s a reminder of how fragile life can be and how deeply we need to hold space for one another.

To his family, friends, and everyone who had the honor of knowing him: your pain is shared, and your grief is seen. His impact will ripple far beyond his time here, and we’ll continue to celebrate his light, even in his absence. Rest well, young king. You are loved, always.

I just wanted to say a heartfelt thanks to Kristi, Olivia and Madeline. .Kristian made an everlasting impression on our lives as neighbors. By Kristian walking a principled path he demonstrated for the rest of us a guide to be our best self.
We honor his memory by being kind to others.

Awww My Kristian!!

I can definitely say he made the biggest impact on many of our lives. He was my basketball manager for 2 years and when I say having him at practice was such a joy. He always catered to the team’s needs and my personal needs. He showed how selfless he was, always making sure we were okay. Me and Kris then managed together for the boys basketball team this school year. And he was the sweetest, funny, and caring soul ever and when I say having him was amazing I genuinely mean it. I miss his everyday, his smile made my day and his check-ups made me feel seen. I love you forever Kris, You are missed kiddo. Forever in my heart -Cristal

I loved when Kristian came to half day to read to me. He was so fun. Playing with blocks together was my favorite part. His visits were the best part of my week.

Our face time calls during COVID were the best. He always made me smile.

He was my favorite Camp Cosby counselor. I was a little afraid to go to camp because it was my first sleep away camp ever. But when I saw Kristian, I was no longer afraid. I gave him a big hug and I knew it would be a perfect week.

I wish I could hug him one more time.
But I know I can hug him with my heart whenever I think of him.

Clarence Owens

I loved sharing a birthday with Kristian as well as being his music teacher and watching him grow. When I needed a place to stay the last few weeks of teaching, Kristian not only welcomed me into their home, but helped take care of my dog Jimmi. I love this picture of the two of them after we watched Kristian play baseball.

The heart of so many beach memories and the muscle in our garden- Kristian was the kind of sweet framily member who will be adored always in our home.

The time we found out you were FUR REAL allergic to cats