Frederick John Barritt

Early life and education

Born in Bermuda in 1916, Barritt received his early education at Woodlands School and later at Saltus Grammar School.

Early career

Before entering politics, Barritt worked in business and became involved in community affairs. His early professional experience included clerical and administrative responsibilities, which helped shape his later career in public service.

Barritt served as a director of Bermuda Press Holdings and was a lay reader in the Anglican Church. He was also a trustee of the Willowbank Foundation.

Reputation and tributes

Following Barritt’s passing, community organisations paid tribute to his decades of public service. Project Action described him as a humble and generous figure whose guidance and experience benefitted the organisation throughout the 1990s. Acting Governor Ginny Ferson also extended condolences, noting that Barritt was widely regarded as a gracious and fair man who devoted many years to serving Bermuda.

Premier Craig Cannonier characterised him as "a community servant in every sense", noting his attentiveness to constituents and his calm leadership as Speaker of the House. Members of both the United Bermuda Party and the Progressive Labour Party also recognised his even-tempered approach and his ability to maintain order during often contentious debates.

Tributes also came from the One Bermuda Alliance, whose chairman highlighted Barritt’s long-standing reputation as one of the most respected members of the United Bermuda Party.