About Chris

Christopher Floyd Phillips (1985-2025) was a passionate outdoorsman, devoted son and brother, and respected professional whose life embodied adventure, service and integrity. Born and raised in Morgantown, West Virginia, Chris grew up with a deep love for the Appalachian Mountains, a love that would guide his life’s pursuits, from business to biking, and eventually to the founding vision behind The Chris Phillips Foundation.

After graduating from Morgantown High School in 2003, Chris went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in Business and Communication from West Virginia University. From an early age, he showed a strong sense of responsibility and leadership, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout under the mentorship of National Scoutmaster Pat Ryan. His dedication to service and outdoors remained core to his identity throughout his life.

Chris was an accomplished mountain biker who raced professionally with Team DEVO and later served on the board of the West Virginia Mountain Bike Association. He was a champion of sustainable trail development and community outreach, spending countless hours building, maintaining, and riding the trails of Canaan Valley and beyond. Whether working with tools in hand or simply encouraging new riders, Chris was a cornerstone of the mountain biking community in West Virginia.

Professionally, Chris carried on a proud family tradition as a third-generation agent with New York Life. Joining the company in 2010, he became a registered representative with New York Life Insurance and Securities and earned Executive Council honors multiple times. He was known not only for his financial acumen but also for his sincerity and loyalty to his clients. Alongside his work in financial services, Chris also managed MJH Development Corporation and served as the majority owner of CMBMJ Properties, LLC.

Chris had a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, particularly as a collector of historical firearms, and he was never happier than when he was out in nature with his loyal black lab, Maya. Whether biking forest ridges or hiking through quiet woodlands, Chris found peace and meaning in the land. His time spent in Canaan Valley was especially dear to him, and it became the spiritual heart of the work he hoped to support through his foundation.

In the final months of his life, Chris began laying the groundwork for what would become the Chris Phillips Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting mountain biking, trail conservation, and environmental stewardship in the Canaan Valley region. Though his life was cut short, his vision lives on: a commitment to preserving the places he loved and inspiring future generations to ride, build and protect.

Chris is remembered for his generosity, sense of humor, and unwavering love for family and community. His spirit continues to ride every trail, and his legacy endures in every effort made to protect and grow the outdoor spaces he held so close to his heart.