The Annapolis community is reeling from the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Chris Canty, the beloved operating partner of Secret Spot Pizza Co. and a cherished member of the Shotti’s family. His passing has left colleagues, friends, and countless patrons in shock, struggling to process the absence of someone whose presence brought warmth, laughter, and a sense of belonging to so many.
Chris was more than a business partner — he was family. At Shotti’s and Secret Spot Pizza Co., he poured not only his expertise but also his heart into creating spaces where people could gather, share meals, and feel at home. To coworkers, he was a trusted friend and confidant, someone who lifted spirits with his humor and steadiness. To customers, he was a familiar and welcoming face, embodying the sense of community that made both establishments so special.
Those closest to Chris remember a man who was as loyal as he was kind, a friend who could be leaned on in moments of joy and in times of difficulty. His laugh was contagious, his generosity unmatched, and his commitment to those around him unwavering. His absence leaves an immeasurable void, not only in the businesses he helped shape but in the hearts of the countless lives he touched.
In the wake of his sudden passing, many are left with unanswered questions and deep grief. His loved ones emphasize the importance of connection and support during difficult times, urging anyone who may be struggling to reach out for help. “If you are struggling yourself, please, please know you are not alone,” a close friend shared. “Talk to someone you trust. There is help, even in the darkest moments.”
Plans are being made to honor Chris’s memory and celebrate the life of a man who meant so much to so many. Details regarding memorial gatherings will be shared in the coming days as friends, family, and the broader Annapolis community come together to grieve and to remember.
Chris Canty’s legacy will live on in the laughter he sparked, the friendships he nurtured, and the community he helped build. Though his passing leaves behind tremendous sorrow, the love and memories he gave will continue to inspire those who knew him to hold each other a little closer and live with the same warmth he carried each day.