Marion Christopher Barry facts for kids

Marion Christopher Barry (born June 17, 1980 – died August 14, 2016) was a businessman who owned a construction company. He was the son of Marion Barry, a well-known politician who served as the Mayor of Washington, D.C. two times. His father was also a long-time member of the city council. After his father passed away, Christopher tried to win his father's old council seat in 2015, but he was not successful.

Growing Up: Christopher Barry's Early Years

Marion Christopher Barry was born in June 1980. His parents were Marion Barry and Effi Slaughter Barry. He was their only child. His father wanted to name him Marion Barry III, but his mother did not agree. So, they chose Christopher as his middle name instead. For most of his adult life, he preferred to be called Christopher.

Christopher went to both public and private elementary schools in Washington, D.C. These included Ben W. Murch Elementary and St. Albans School for Boys. He left St. Albans' because other students teased him. This teasing was about some challenges his father was facing at the time.

After his parents divorced in 1993, Christopher lived with his mother. He attended Jefferson Junior High in Washington, D.C. He later graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School. He also briefly attended the University of the District of Columbia and Hampton University.

In 2015, Christopher Barry shared that his relationship with his father was "more like brothers than father and son." He also started a successful construction business. He named it Efficiency Contractors LLC, to honor his mother.

Political Journey: Running for Council

After his father passed away, Christopher Barry began using his first name, Marion, more often. On January 5, 2015, he announced he would run for a seat on the Council of the District of Columbia. This seat represented Ward 8, which his father had held.

The seat became open after his father's death. Christopher appeared on the ballot as "Marion C. Barry." He received support from other political figures.

In the special election held on April 28, 2015, Christopher Barry finished in sixth place. He received eight percent of the total votes.

Later Life and Passing

Christopher Barry passed away in the early morning hours of August 14, 2016. He was found unconscious by his girlfriend. He was then taken to George Washington University Hospital. Doctors pronounced him dead at 2:11 AM. He was 36 years old.