May 14, 1956 – February 13, 2020 Christie Powell left this world with an open heart on February 13, 2020 at Kaplan House in Danvers, surrounded by love. She leaves behind her cherished daughter, Emily Ohrtman of Gloucester, her sister Meredith Powell of Westwood, Ma., as well as the many friends who walked with her in joy and sorrow through life’s journey and, finally, to where she had to go. She was a bright light whose wisdom, kindness, and compassion enriched the lives of all those she touched. Born in Greenwich, Ct. in 1956, she graduated from Greenwich High School in 1974, then moved to Boulder, Colorado in 1975, where she earned a psychology degree at the University of Colorado. She worked at the Bank of Boulder from 1979 to 1987, first as a teller, then, due to her deep understanding of people, she shifted to human resources which became her life’s calling. When she moved to Gloucester in 1988, she was hired as the first HR manager at Copyright Clearance Center (CCC) in Danvers, and was one of the company’s earliest employees. Christie loved her work. As CCC grew, she was promoted to Sr. HR Manager and attended the Greater Boston Executive program at MIT Sloan. She was committed to helping others, leading CCC’s partnership with Habitat for Humanity, Able and EMBARK programs, and volunteering for Hospice. Christie was a long-time and beloved member of the Annisquam Village Church, serving on the board and committees over the years. Her daughter Emily was by far her favorite activity, but her interests were wide. She loved road trips, movies, flea markets, cookbooks, magazines, camping, jewelry, hold’em poker, books-on-tape, and collecting heart-shaped stones on the beach. There was never enough time. She celebrated Oscar night and Christmas Eve, and sent greeting cards for all occasions, or just because. Her dream meal was homemade spaghetti bolognaise and a hot & dirty martini. She grew sweet peas in her garden, and filled her home with whimsey. A treasured pet was always near, including Stanley, Bella, and Truman. She always gave the perfect gift, but she will be most remembered for her beautiful smile. A memorial service will be held at Annisquam Village Church on Saturday, February 29th at 3pm. Gifts in her memory may be made to Care Dimensions, Ste. B-102, 75 Sylvan St, Danvers, MA 01923. If you would like to send flowers, please call Sage Floral Studio at 978-282-9582. Arrangements by Greely Funeral Home, 212 Washington St. Gloucester.