Chris Barrows

53, died suddenly and unexpectedly aboard the Ellis Davis in New Orleans, LA on Tuesday, December 1st. Chris was born May 17, 1962 in Swinden Wilts, England. His mom, Eleanor (Sadlo) Barrows (predeceased), raised him and his older brother Lee in Ft. Walton Beach, Fla., where they settled shortly after Chris was born. His father, George Barrows (predeceased) was a high-ranking officer in the United States Air Force. His unexpected death is a devastating, and heartbreaking loss to us all. His crewmates and colleagues at Kirby Inland Marine will sorely miss Chris’ salty-dog charm and gentle-giant presence in transporting America’s commerce along our waterways. Chris graduated from Fort Walton Beach H.S. in 1980. He was a talented artist and enjoyed the imaginative outlet and comradery of the Society of Creative Anachronisms. Tall and handsome, he was a natural knight in shining armor. Chris proudly served his nation in the United States Navy Submarine Corp. from 1984 to 1990. He sailed aboard the U.S.S. Francis Scott Key before being honorably discharged. He followed his Navy stint with a career in the U.S. Merchant Marine where he earned his Captain’s license. Chris and Scarlette have made Tampa their home since 1998. They were madly in love and enjoyed their days sharing life’s simple pleasures. It should also be noted that among those who will miss Chris’s magnetic presence the most will be, “Scally Wag,” their rescued Shar Pei whom Chris named after himself. Chris is survived by his wife and soul-mate, Scarlette (Sky) Barrows, his much loved daughter, Heather, and three grandsons, Braidon, Connor, and Trip; brother, Lee Barrows. He also leaves a much-loved extended family, the Timmel clan. A gathering of friends and family will be held at Blount and Curry Funeral Home, 605 S. MacDill Ave. this Saturday, December 5th, between 4 and 6 P.M. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the www.floridasharpeirescue.com .