Christopher Lee Carrington

Christopher Lee Carrington, known affectionately by many as "Big C," passed away peacefully on April 7, 2026, at 2:10 AM at North Care Hospice House in Kansas City. He was 50 years old.

Born on Independence Day, 1975, in Dover, Ohio, Chris carried a vibrant and protective spirit throughout his life. A natural athlete in his youth, he excelled in football and wrestling. Following the passing of his mother Shelia Carrington, Chris was raised by his beloved grandparents, Luther and Beatrice Cato. He was also profoundly shaped by his Aunt Linda, who was like a mother to him and remained a constant, supportive presence in his life from beginning to end.

In his early 20s, Chris followed his brother, Troy, to Kansas City, where he built a career defined by service and protection. He served as a corrections officer for the Jackson County Detention Center for over a decade before transitioning into security work. A master of his craft, Chris was a dedicated Aikido practitioner and a skilled firearms and self-defense instructor. Known for having "fast hands" and a commanding presence, he was in the process of fulfilling his dream of establishing his own firearms training company before his illness.

While Chris could be forceful and firm when the job required it, those who knew him best knew he was a "big teddy bear" at heart. He was at his happiest when he was with his family. He spent countless hours discovering new parks with his children, watching movies, and engaging in spirited card games and video games. His sense of humor and playful teasing will be deeply missed by those he loved most.

Chris’s legacy lives on through his six children: Deja Cato, Monique Conley, Tyler Crispin, Amy Wright, Caleb Carrington, and Sarah Carrington; and his three grandchildren, Lydia Conley, Amelia Norris, and Nevaeh Norris. He is also survived by his sister, Joelle Kidder of Moseley, VA; his nephew, Bohdi Kidder; and his best friend and former wife, Bethany Wright.

Chris was also survived by his Aunt Linda, as well as a large and loving circle of aunts, uncles, and cousins who meant the world to him. Among them was his cousin Shawnya Walker, with whom he shared a bond like that of a sister.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his grandparents; his brothers, Troy Carrington; and Robert "Bobby" Kidder.

A memorial service to celebrate Chris’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Susquehanna Assembly of God 622 N. Jennings Rd. Independence, MO 64056.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Carson-Speaks Chapel, Independence, MO 64052 (816) 252-7900)