Christina was born May 25, 1922 to Helen and Edward Marvin in Montour Falls, NY. Prior to being married, she lived in Hammondsport, NY beside her beloved Keuka Lake. After marrying Harry Arthur in 1939 and moving to Canisteo, she raised their four children while simultaneously having successful careers in cosmetology and real estate. While living in Canisteo, Chris was also Matron of the Eastern Star Chapter, President of the Women’s Professional Business Association, and President of the New York State Hair Designers Guild. She also had a radio show that aired five days a week in Hornell.
For many years, Chris operated Christine’s Beauty Shop located on Greenwood Street, and later on Main Street in Canisteo. For a few years, Chris and Harry owned and operated a Museum located on Route 54 between Bath and Hammondsport that displayed both Iroquois Indian artifacts and Iroquois culture.
In 1987, Chris moved to Napa, California where she married Robert Simpson. As a member of the St. Helena Art Club, Chris took various watercolor classes and produced many beautiful paintings. She also took up golf and became a frequent player among Napa’s various courses. After moving to Lake Wildwood, California in 2000, she joined the art club and continued with her love of watercolor painting.
Christina was known for her loving heart, charm, humor, easy going personality and her generous nature. She will be greatly missed by her family and all who knew her.
Christina was predeceased by her parents; first husband, Harry Arthur of Canisteo and Hammondsport; second husband, Robert Simpson of Canisteo and California; sister, Frances Morgan of Virginia; Uncle, Ken Morley of Rochester and great grandson, Scott Thompson of Canisteo.
She is survived by her four children; Stan (Barbara) Arthur of Canisteo, Christina Jeanne Arthur of Sylvania, Ohio, Fran (Don) Ricketts of Lake Wildwood, California; Jim (Sue) Arthur of Bath; seven grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren one great great grandchild; aunt, Inge Morley of Rochester; several nieces and nephews and her dear friend, Joe Stein of Lake Wildwood, California.
There will be a memorial service in New York at a future date. Christina will be buried beside her first husband in Woodlawn Cemetery in Canisteo.
Those wishing to honor Chris’ memory may make contributions to the Kanestio Historical Society in care of Gail Davis, 23 Main Street, Canisteo, NY 14823, or the Wimodaughsian Free Library, 10 West Main Street, Canisteo, NY 14823.
Friends wishing to send a remembrance to the family may visit www.brownandpowersfuneralhomes.com. The family is being assisted by Gerald R. Brown, Director at Brown & Powers Funeral Home of Canisteo.
