Christopher D. Shirling

Salisbury – Christopher D. Shirling, 60, of Salisbury, MA, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2025, at Portsmouth Regional Hospital in Portsmouth, NH.

Born and raised in Haverhill, MA, Christopher was the son of the late Hollis V. Shirling and Patricia A. (Sheehan) Shirling. He attended Haverhill public schools and graduated from St. John's Preparatory School in Danvers in 1983.

Christopher lived a life full of simple joys and meaningful connections. He loved going to the beach, listening to music-especially the Beatles and U2-and spending time journaling and writing. A proud Boston sports fan, he rarely missed a Bruins or Red Sox game. At home, he cherished the companionship of his cat, Max.

Above all else, Christopher's greatest joy and accomplishment was being a father. He treasured every moment spent with his children, who were the center of his life. He will be remembered as a loving son, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, whose quick wit and sense of humor brought laughter to those around him.

He is survived by his son Robert J. Shirling and his wife Tricia of Roslindale, his daughter Sydney O. Chory and her husband Michael of Haverhill, and his grandson Luca Shirling. He also leaves behind his brother Jack Shirling and his wife Sheryl of Land O' Lakes, FL, his sister Patricia Gleason and her husband Scott of Haverhill, and his nieces Lindsey Reed, Katelyn Shirling, and Kallie Shirling. He was predeceased by his sister Nancy Shirling.