Christie-Ann Jannell Jones, a lifelong resident of Marblehead, died peacefully on Jan. 26, at the Kaplan Family Hospice House in Danvers. She was 88.
Christie was predeceased by her beloved husband Stephen Decatur Jones and by her sister Gretchen Jannell.
Born April 28, 1937, to Arthur and Jean (Anderson) Jannell, Christie was raised in Marblehead. She was a graduate of Marblehead High School, Vermont College for Women and the University of Florence in Italy, where she pursued her love of art and Italian culture. A gifted painter, she continued to create throughout her life.
Christie and Steve raised their four sons in New Hampshire and later divided their time between Machiasport, Maine, and Loro Ciuffenna, Italy. Christie spoke fluent Italian and formed many lasting friendships there. After Steve’s death, she continued living in Italy overseeing the home and its olive grove.
An intuitive cook, Christie seemed to effortlessly conjure delicious meals, whether from her ancient cucina in Tuscany or the imposing cookstove in Machiasport. Convivial by nature, she delighted in a wide range of people and places and was as comfortable in simple settings as she was in more refined ones. Christie also believed deeply in giving back and devoted herself thoughtfully to community causes.
Known for her wry humor, Christie delighted in a well-timed quip and was especially fond of a good practical joke, often delivered with a perfectly straight face.
Above all else, Christie will be remembered as a devoted mother and stepmother, a doting grandmother and a loving sister. Though she traveled widely and embraced the world, she remained fiercely proud to call Marblehead home, ultimately bringing her life full circle to the place where it began.
She is survived by her four sons: Eric Jones (Mary Macleod) of Buxton, Maine; Reid Jones of Salem, Massachusetts; Ian Jones (Amy Nicolo) and grandchildren Cosima and Diego of Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida; and Graeme Jones of Marblehead; as well as her stepchildren Andrea, Jeffrey, Stephen and Kimberly, and an extended family of eight grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Holly Jannell of Marblehead, along with many cousins and dear friends.
Christie loved life and lived it to the hilt. She will be deeply missed. Ciao bella.
A private family service will be held in the spring.
