LANCASTER, S.C. — The pilot of the WBTV helicopter who died after a crash in Charlotte not only loved flying but also loved his family, his heritage and his faith.  

What You Need To Know 

Chip Tayag was the pilot who died on helicopter crash on Tuesday in Charlotte

His pastor remembers Tayag for his positive attitude and willingness to serve

Tayag’s funeral will be on Nov. 30 in Lancaster, South Carolina

Chip Tayag and meteorologist Jason Myers died after the Sky3 chopper Tayag piloted crashed for an unknown reason near Interstate 77 on Tuesday. 

Tayag and his wife Kerry were parishioners of Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church in Lancaster, South Carolina. 

Father Jeffrey Kirby, the pastor of the parish, said they call themselves "Team Grace" because they are a small community of 800 families. 

“My life revolves around my parishioners, so service to the Lord through His people here ‘Lady of Grace,'” Kirby said. 

Kirby said Tayag became involved in the church early on when it opened six years ago. 

“He was one of those parishioners every pastor dreams about: wanted to be involved in worship, wanted to be involved in outreach, fellowship,” Kirby said. “He was a man of faith, he was Filipino-American, his culture and the Catholic faith were very important to him.”

Tayag celebrated many special moments at this church, including marrying Kerry Tayag in 2019. 

“It was a blessing to have that ceremony here,” Kirby said.

Kirby said he didn't have many pictures of Tayag because he was usually behind the camera. He did save a photo of the Tayags' wedding, which he said captures Chip Tayag’s personality. 

“That smile that Chip has there, that was his mark,” Kirby said. 

Kirby teared up as he recalled receiving a call from Kerry Tayag Tuesday afternoon to notify him of Chip Tayag’s passing. 

“I was in shock,” Kirby said.

Kirby will miss his warm greetings and his positive personality. 

"Knowing he won't be here this Sunday is heavy in my heart and in the hearts of those who knew him and loved him," Kirby said.

Kirby was not surprised witnesses mentioned the pilot of the helicopter diverted the aircraft to avoid vehicles on interstate, which likely saved lives. 

“It didn’t shock me at all, because that was the man he was, and that’s the life he lived. It was consistent with his faith and his sense of service I’ve always seen from him. That he died in a heroic manner is no surprise to me at all,” Kirby said. 

Kirby has been praying for Tayag and offering support to his family. 

During the Thanksgiving mass, he told parishioners about Tayag’s passing and encourage them to attend his funeral. 

"I ask every parishioner, as they’re able, to please plan to come to the funeral so as a parish family so we can pray for Chip's soul, honor his heroic life and death and give consolation to his wife and family,” Kirby said. 

Tayag’s funeral is planned for Nov. 30 at noon at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church. Kirby said his burial will be in Maryland, where many of his family members live. 

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the helicopter crash.