Christine C Harmer

Christine Alison Harmer (Crickett), 68, passed away in her home on January 8, 2026, with her husband of more than 41 years at her side after a lengthy battle with cancer fought with incredible grace, determination, courage and never faltering optimism.

Crickett was preceded in death by her parents, H. G. and Alison Coffman, Santa Rosa Beach, FL and her brother, Barrie Coffman, also of Santa Rosa Beach, FL. Crickett is survived by: her husband, Peter Harmer, of Franklin, TN, her stepsons, Wendell Harmer, (Wiff) of Nashville and Hilton Head, SC and Stuart Harmer of Jay, NY; her grandchildren, Dudley, Marley, Wyatt and Brayden Harmer; her brother, Robert Coffman (Nancy) of Dothan, AL, her sister, Janet Sue Hoover of New York City, several nieces and nephews and cousins.

Following Crickett's birth on May 13, 1957, in Lynn, MA, Crickett's family moved to different locations in the US as her father pursued a management career with International Harvester (now Navistar).

Crickett attended elementary school in Downers Grove, Illinois and, following her family's move to Georgia, was enrolled at Wheeler High School in Marietta, GA where she excelled both scholastically and athletically. Crickett completed her high school education in 3 years in an accelerated study program and was a star member of the state championship basketball team. Upon graduation from high school, Crickett attended the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN (UT) and earned a degree in Business Administration.

Following graduation from UT, Crickett joined the Atlanta Regional Commission, a regional and inter-governmental coordination agency for the 11-county Atlanta region, focusing attention and collaboration on issues facing the region. This experience led to gaining a position at the Tennessee Valley Authority, Knoxville, TN (TVA) involving the public participation aspect of the Agency in the 7 state TVA system, the largest public power company in the United States supplying power to 10 million people in the Southeastern US.

While organizing a seminar at TVA in 1983 to discuss the Agency's efforts in economic and industrial development within the TVA region, Crickett met Peter Harmer, a speaker at the conference, from Nashville. There was an instant attraction, and Crickett and Peter were married one year later.

Following their marriage, Crickett moved to Nashville and became a successful Jazzercise instructor. She also became an integral member of American Airlines Premium Services and the Admirals Club at Nashville International Airport until cessation of the position following 9/11 and then embarked on a career at Vanderbilt Hospital School of Nursing in the area of clinical placements. While working at Vanderbilt, Crickett obtained a Master's Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences and her published paper, "The effects of 'Cloth Politics' in the Trans-Atlantic-Atlantic Slave Trade: Cause, Cash, Commodity and Comfort," received accolades from the faculty for its depth of research and previously unknown facts about the topic.

A journey of 41 years took the couple to numerous places and experiences and created an inspirational bond that was immediately recognized by all who met them. As a couple they were seldom apart. Their home is replete with items that serve as visual reminders of places visited and memories created together.

From the diagnosis of ovarian cancer in December 2021, Peter walked every step with Crickett as she battled cancer with more than 30 chemo treatments and participated in various clinical cancer trials hoping for success against the unrelenting disease.

Crickett's participation in the various cancer trials was always supported by Crickett's stated hope that her participation would assist those women who would be affected with ovarian cancer in the future. Crickett was also a mentor to women suffering from ovarian cancer offering support and sharing experiences as they individually underwent treatment and fought the disease.

Crickett was an avid reader of non-fiction historical books, a dedicated gardener, a committed Jazzercise participant for more than 40 years, an expert quilter who was active in the Cumberland Valley Quilters Association and the most incredible partner in love and life.

Throughout her life, Crickett exhibited a unique spirit of individualism untainted by pretentiousness or entitlement while accomplishing stellar achievements in school, athletics and every job undertaken. Crickett has been surrounded by wonderful friends, both socially and professionally, who have been attracted and rewarded by her incredible warmth and commitment.

The family would like to recognize the outstanding support and guidance of Alive Hospice; Nashville offered with empathy during this difficult time.

In Lieu of flowers the family would like donations to be made in Crickett’s honor to Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, or Alive Hospice in Nashville, Tennessee.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, please check back for details.