Christopher A. Rhyne, CFP®, BFA™
Founder
Faith, family, and community are central to Chris Rhyne’s life, and they shape the way he serves his clients every day.
As a financial advisor, Chris works with individuals and businesses to provide comprehensive financial planning and address the many financial issues they face as their lives evolve.
He initially built his practice working with teachers, who still constitute a significant portion of his clients.
“My mom was a first-grade teacher in Lincoln County schools for over 30 years, so that’s where I developed a heart for teaching and education.”
A graduate of The Citadel, Chris founded his financial planning firm in 2002. Drawn back to his hometown of Lincolnton, North Carolina, he set out to build a practice rooted in relationships.
“I chose financial services because it fits who I am,” Chris says. “I enjoy helping others and making a real difference in people’s lives.” For him, this work is about leadership, service, and giving back to the community he calls home.
Katherine Thorpe
Office Manager
Katherine serves as an Office Manager at Chris Rhyne Financial Management, where she plays a key role in supporting clients and ensuring the day-to-day operations of the office run smoothly.
Known for her exceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail, Katherine helps bring structure and clarity to client service while ensuring every interaction is handled with care and follow-through. Her welcoming personality and commitment to excellent service help foster the strong relationships that CRFM values with every client. She recently earned her North Carolina Life and Health Insurance license, further deepening her ability to support clients and the team.
Katherine earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, with minors in Marketing and History.
Outside the office, Katherine enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, paddleboarding, and cake decorating. Family and faith are very important to her, and she enjoys being part of a large family that includes four siblings and many nieces and nephews.
Kathryn Burgess
Client Services Professional
A lifelong resident of Lincoln County, Kathryn Burgess grew up in the Lincoln County School system, where she was actively involved in clubs and sports. Her love for Lincolnton and the people she grew up alongside is at the heart of everything she does, and it's what drew her to a career in financial services.
Kathryn recently completed her Bachelor of Science in Business Management with a concentration in Human Resources and a minor in Digital Marketing at Appalachian State University. Her academic background, combined with hands-on professional experience, gives her a well-rounded perspective on both people and business operations.
She has since joined Chris Rhyne Financial Management as a Client Services Professional and is currently pursuing her license to become a Financial Advisor, bringing her skills and her roots back home to serve the families and community she knows best.
Outside of work, Kathryn continues to give back, having volunteered with the American Cancer Society for nearly four years and served as a social media and fundraising leader for multiple organizations. She is proud to call Lincolnton home and looks forward to building lasting relationships right here in Lincoln County.
Getting Involved in Our Community
We’re committed to giving back to the community that gives so much to us, today and for generations to come.
Helped start the All Pro Dads program in 10 schools
Serve on the Lincoln County Public Education Foundation board
Directed the local Upward Sports Basketball Ministry
Mentor middle school boys in the Communities in Schools program
Chairman of the Lincolnton-Lincoln County Chamber of Commerce's Education Committee
Serve on the board for both the Christian Ministry of Lincoln County and the Lincoln County Community Foundation
Over 25 years of helping clients and families across Lincolnton, NC, make informed financial decisions and reach their retirement dreams.
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Client-Focused
We put our clients first by getting to know you personally and tailoring every recommendation to your unique goals and priorities.
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Relationships & Respect
We build long-term, trust-based relationships through honest guidance, ongoing reviews, and advice that's never driven by selling products.
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Financial Well-Being
Using advanced planning tools and thoughtful analysis, we design retirement strategies aligned with your goals so you can approach the future with confidence.
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Memorable Experiences
We pair personalized service with memorable client appreciation events throughout the year, including sporting events, dinners, and our annual March Madness celebration.
