Christopher F. Barritt

Christopher Franklin Barritt, age 72 of Mt. Airy, MD, passed away unexpectedly on June 13, 2026, only two and a half months after the death of his beloved wife of 53 years, Eleonore. He was born on September 22, 1953 to Clay and Maxine Barritt.  

Chris lived a life defined by curiosity, craftsmanship, determination, and an enduring love of adventure. We find comfort in imagining him cycling into the sunset, reunited with Eleonore and the many beloved dogs who shared their lives over the years.

His love of machinery and movement began early in life. As a tween, he spent summers working aboard the Shenandoah under the legendary Captain Douglas who helped shape his lifelong appreciation for hard work, self-reliance, and adventure.

Chris retired from Mercedes-Benz after a long and accomplished career as a respected mechanic. Blessed with an extraordinary ability to understand how things worked, he could diagnose, repair, build, or improve just about anything he could get his hands on. Whether in his workshop or helping family and friends, he was often greeted with the familiar question: "Hey Dad (Chris), how do I fix...?" He always had an answer and willingness to help. 

Chris loved everything with wheels, but especially those with only two. For many years, he rode motorcycles to and from work and across the United States and parts of Canada, often with Eleonore on the back. He served his community as a volunteer firefighter with the Mt. Airy Fire Department and helped maintain readiness of emergency vehicles. 

In later years, he traded the motorcycle for a bicycle, bringing the same passion and a competitive spirit to cycling. He qualified for and competed in time trial events at five U.S. Senior Olympic Games, won numerous races throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, and was a proud member of the Chesapeake Wheelmen.

Beyond the medals and accomplishments, what Chris treasured most were the friendships formed through cycling. He loved spending hours riding virtually with friends around the world and cherished every mile ridden with The Chain Gang.

Chris is survived by his children Christina (Barritt) McNeill and Bryan Barritt; grandchildren Madeline, Ross, Connor, and Brayden; his siblings Theresa and Tim; his faithful black lab, Magic; and many extended family members and friends whose lives were made better by knowing him.

He leaves behind a legacy of craftsmanship, perseverance, generosity, and countless projects built with his own hands. More importantly, he leaves behind lessons learned through example: work hard, help others, stay curious, and never stop moving forward.

We wish him fair winds, following seas, open roads, and majestic landscapes. May his journey continue alongside the love of his life, with the horizon forever stretching before them.

The Family will receive friends on Saturday, June 20, 2026 from 4 - 6 PM with a Celebration of Life Service at 6:00 PM at Burrier-Queen Funeral Home & Crematory, 1212 West Old Liberty Road Sykesville, MD 21784 (beside South Carroll High School).

Online condolences at www.Burrier-Queen.com.