Christina “Chris” Mary Powell, 73, of Naples Fla., formerly of Morgantown, passed away on June 11, 2022, in Fredericksburg, Va. at the home of her son. She was born on Aug. 26, 1948, in Cleveland, to the late Elmer Francis and Jeane Celia Lusk Abend.
Chris graduated from Ohio University in 1970 with a bachelor’s degree in early elementary education and later from West Virginia University with a master’s degree in the same field. She retired from Louden County Schools in 2013, where she taught kindergarten, or as she referred to it “the land of K.” Following a move to Naples, Fla., Chris continued to substitute teach for many years in Collier County.
After moving to West Virginia in 1983, Chris wore many hats both figuratively and literally. While working full time and raising two boys, she found joy in volunteering her time to improve the lives of others. For over two decades Chris dedicated herself to raising funds and awareness for many organizations in North Central West Virginia.
Chris was a longtime member of the Morgantown West Virginia Jaycees, where she received the highest honor bestowed upon a member. She was recognized by her fellow members as JCI senator #80152.
Chris was a strong advocate for breast cancer research and awareness, having been a survivor herself. Known to many as “The Hat Lady,” she donated her time to the Betty Puskar Future’s Golf Classic, and was known to model and perform at the Betty Puskar annual fashion show. She was always prepared to offer a laugh and a smile.
Over the course of her time in Morgantown, Chris was able to raise funds and support for Make-a-Wish of Greater Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Any time she was called upon to help, she was there and ready. Never saying no when asked to help out she is said to have been “the ultimate supporter and fundraiser” for Make-a-Wish of Greater Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
Chris will be remembered for her love of life, fierce independence and a laugh that could light up a room. She loved her family, Willie Nelson and “Country Roads.” Chris was known to always have the latest trend in animal print, especially if it sparkled. She loved getting fashion advice from her grandson, Griffin.
Chris leaves behind many loved ones, including her sons, Corey Joseph Powell and wife Amanda, of Morgantown, and Daniel Wayne Powell and wife Aleda, of Fredericksburg, Va. Gigi will be missed so much by her three loving grandchildren, Declan Wesley, Ava Lynn and Griffin Louis Powell. She is also survived by one brother, James Abend, of Loveland, Ohio; sister, Lita Abend, of Liberty Township, Ohio; the father of her sons, David Wayne Powell, of Connellsville, Pa.; her dear beach pal, Anne; two nieces; and one nephew.
The family would like to extend a very special thank you to Mary Washington Hospice and the amazing group of people that have surrounded us with so much love. A special acknowledgement needs to be made to Chris’s daughter-in-law, Aleda, for the compassionate, caring love that she provided to Mom in her final weeks.
In honor of Chris’s request, cremation services were provided by Virginia Cremation Service. A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date with a private service to scatter her ashes. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Betty Puskar Breast Care Center at 1 Medical Center Drive, Morgantown WV 26506.
