Remembering Kerry
Kerry Christie
1961-2011
It is with profound sadness that we record the death of our colleague, Kerry Christie, who had been battling cancer with remarkable courage over the last year. However, her brave fight has now come to an end.
Kerry started work in Ulster Bank thirty years ago tomorrow (Wednesday) and joined IBOA at the same time. She became a committed activist - first elected to the Union Executive Committee in 1990 and re-elected ever since. She was seconded from the Bank to serve as the Union's Ulster Bank Officer for a period. She also served on the former NatWest European Staff Council and was at the time of her death Joint Chair of the RBS European Works Council.
When Kerry was diagnosed with cancer last year, she was determined that she would not become a prisoner to her condition. She continued to play a full and active part in the Union - which was exemplified by the fact Wthat she was not only in attendance at our most recent IBOA Executive Committee meeting on June 16 - but she also continued to display such boundless dedication to her members that many were not even aware that she was ill.
Kerry embraced life completely. She was courageous and determined in everything she did - and with a wicked sense of humour. She has been an inspiration to us all in IBOA.
On behalf of IBOA, I offer our heartfelt condolences to Kerry's family and friends, to her wider family in Ulster Bank, and especially to her colleagues from the Ulster Bank Executive Committee, on their tragic loss.
May she rest in peace.
Larry Broderick
General Secretary
IBOA - The Finance Union
Kerry Christie speaking at the Union's Biennial Delegate Conference in 2009It is both devastating and heartbreaking to lose such a dear friend and colleague as Kerry. Kerry was one in a million - someone who gave so freely of her time, expertise and enthusiasm to help so many people, without ever thinking of the cost to herself.
I am truly inspired to have worked with Kerry throughout her battle with her illness and to have seen the incredible positivity and energy with which she continued to work to help others when they needed it.
All of us have lost a great friend and colleague and my heartfelt sympathy goes to Kerry's husband, Stephen, daughters Olivia and Amy, her sister Megan; and to close colleagues who are mourning the loss of Kerry, a truly great woman. Rest in peace.
John
John Burns
Bank Officer - Ulster Bank Group
IBOA - The Finance Union
Kerry loved helping people and enjoyed life so much. She was an inspiration to us all and battled bravely through her illness, never feeling sorry for herself and very rarely complaining. She could always make you laugh. You always knew when Kerry had entered the room!!!!
The bank has today lost a very loyal, hardworking determined and trustworthy employee who would have been with the bank for 30 years on 29 June 2011, and I have lost a lovely bubbly, kind, thoughtful, and helpful friend. We always talked about having a big birthday night for her 50th birthday in November but sadly she didn't make it. She always liked a night out and would have said don't forget about me when you are arranging it.
As I sit here beside her desk with her name plate on it, I feel very sad. Thank you Kerry for enriching my life and so many others (and thank you again for all the lovely perfume you gave me) I still haven't got the contact lenses in and probably won't ever now that you are gone!!!
God bless you and rest in peace
Love always
Lorna xo
Lorna Abbott
Business Operations Services
OSAC Ireland
Danesfort
Just wish to give my condolences to Kerry's family at this sad time. I admired her courage and strength when dealing with her illness and she worked very hard for the union, she will be missed.
With deepest sympathy
Maria Hughes
IBOA Officer Board 2005: Kerry was IBOA's Ulster Bank Officer from 2005 to 2007.Just wanted to share a few words about Kerry. She was one of the most dedicated and strong willed people I have ever known.
She always had time to help and was never anything but generous with her time.
Even when she was incredibly sick she still showed the same amount of drive that she always had.
So many people across Ulster Bank knew Kerry and appreciated all the time she gave to making people's working conditions better. She was tireless in that regard.
She also had a very sharp sense of humour and was incredibly kind.
She will be missed and everyone is thinking of her family at this time.
Christine Sheerin
Team Leader
Business Operations Resource Planning
OSAC Business Services Ireland - Service & Performance
2nd Floor
Danesfort
Kerry - with her close friend and fellow Ulster Bank Executive Committee member, Jaynette StirlingKerry was a truly inspirational woman. From the time I knew Kerry she came across as such a wonderful person, great fun and so determined to fight for and enjoy life despite the many obstacles that were put her way. I will remember her with kind memories and can only offer my deepest sympathies for her immediate family and friends who must be in such pain at the moment. They will be in my prayers and thoughts.
Áine Gamble
Team Leader
Reconciliations Team
Business Services Ireland
Ulster Bank Group
Danesfort
I've spent several hours now agonising over this email and struggling to put my emotions into some sort of a coherent statement that will do Kerry justice before realising that no words would ever truly do that. I will therefore use this opportunity to remember a dear colleague and friend in a fashion that will hopefully do her memory proud.
I worked alongside Kerry for almost 10 years in Danesfort and my life was definitely enriched since meeting her. I have never met anyone that was so dedicated to helping others and ensuring that right was always done - so much so that when Kerry was undergoing her treatment second time around and she told me that she had only returned to work ensure that she could still carry out her IBOA duties, it didn't even surprise me.
Kerry was always available to help people with their problems and on many occasions would contact you well out of working hours to help resolve any issues. Kerry was one of the most generous, kind, caring, committed and dedicated people I have ever had the pleasure to meet. Kerry's focus was always on people and making sure that the right things were being done to protect people's rights.
Her drive and courage should be an inspiration to us all, two characteristics that helped her fight so long against such an awful disease.
I will always remember Kerry with great fondness and a smile. I will always remember her as a straight talking fun loving woman and will miss the 'dignity free zone' that Kerry would constantly refer to when she was in the office. I'm going to miss the days when Kerry walks into the office because when Kerry was about the whole mood would lift and you knew that your day would be brighter than those days when Kerry was out on other business. Unfortunately I'm now going to have to face the fact that those days will now be an everyday reality although I'm sure that it won't stop me looking across the desk wishing she was here or remembering her dry wit.
Kerry was dignity personified in everything she did and I will miss her dearly. My thoughts and condolescences go out to her family at this extremely sad time. The world has lost a truly remarkable woman.
Goodbye Kerry I will miss, but never forget you.
Rest In Peace.
Joe
Joe Allsopp
Business Operations Support
OSAC Business Services Ireland - Service & Performance
Danesfort
Kerry will be greatly missed - an inspiration to all. Warm, thoughtful, funny, fierce!
Angie McGowan
Team Manager
Belfast Customer Service Centre
Business Services Ireland
Ulster Bank Group
I was so sorry to hear the sad news that Kerry lost her struggle with cancer.
Here at UNI, we will remember Kerry's contribution and dedication to IBOA members. She is one of the great leaders who have made the IBOA such a unique organisation. Kerry also made her mark in the European union movement, serving as Joint Chair of the RBS European Works Council.
We are grateful for her strong commitment to the Irish and European trade union movement. She will be sorely missed.
My condolences,
Philip Jennings
General Secretary
UNI Global Union
IBOA delegates vote at the Biennial Delegate Conference of the Northern Ireland Committee of ICTU in 2002.
I first met Kerry when I became an IBOA Secretary, she made an instant impression on me!
To me she was a very strong confident and articulate woman, but she had a underlying kindness and was able to read people very well.
She fought on behalf of the small people and is an example to us all!
Thanks for all your help Kerry, your family and friends are in my prayers and thoughts.
May your soul shine bright.
Vinnie
Vinnie Gallagher QFA
Commercial Support
Ulster Bank Ireland limited
Donegal Town Branch
In 2005 When Kerry was only coming to terms with the first round of her cancer, she called at my home following the sudden death of our youngest daughter. Kerry was at my door offering consolation when she herself was so ill. I can recall her visit so well and was very appreciative of her support.
She came to my aid again in December 2009, ready to help and support where she could.
Kerry was not only a colleague, but a friend and a crutch to us all, supporting us in our time of need. My thoughts and prayers are with her family at this time but know that she will always be there watching over them from a higher council.
Thank you for being there for me
Patricia Connolly
Patricia Connolly
Business Manager
Ulster Bank Andersonstown Branch
Kerry joined the Executive Committee about a year after I did. If I had to select the three words which would most fully describe Kerry, I would say: low-key, calm and strong. Her love of her family - "my girls"- was profound and they enriched her life just as Kerry enriched their lives and the lives of all of us who were priveleged to know her. My wife Deirdre adds her sincere condolences for Kerry's family.
Ciaran Ryan
Former General Secretary
IBOA The Finance Union
To Kerry's family my very deepest sympathy.
A true PEOPLE'S PERSON and the bravest lady most of us will ever meet.
xxx
Veronica
Veronica McQuillan
Flex 2 Business Services
Danesfort
Sincere condolences and sympathy to Kerry's family.
Such a kind, strong and inspirational woman xx
Niamh McClelland
Kerry - with IBOA Honorary Secretary, Tommy Kennedy, from Ulster Bank.Kerry was an inspiration. Her sense of fairness and justice were always to the fore. She kept us balanced in many a difficult situation over the years and she will never be forgotten by me.
When you had problems Kerry was always there with sound sensible advice. You could always count on her courage in a crisis. Our hearts are broken yet again. So soon after Mary, the two of them will be having a serious debate on how they will keep the rest of us right I have no doubt!!
To Stephen, Olivia and Amy, you should be so proud of Kerry and the way she so positively touched so many lives.
We are all the richer for her being our friend and colleague and I thank you for sharing her with us.
Tommy
Tommy Kennedy
Honorary Secretary
IBOA The Finance Union
I first met Kerry Christie when we were both young enthusiastic reps serving on the Belfast Ladies Committee in the 1980s. Kerry was every bit as dedicated to the cause of the Union then as she was until the time of her sad passing last night.
I have so many great memories of times we shared, battles we won and lost, and most of all laughs we had. Kerry was a dedicated mother and talked unceasingly about her two beautiful daughters Olivia and Amy of whom she was immensely proud. She always made sure I was updated on how their lives were going and equally she was interested in how my daughter Claire was doing. My family still talks about the fabulous catering that Kerry did for Claire's 18th birthday seven years ago in the Bankers Club.
Kerry was a friend, a colleague, a wonderful mother, a great cook, a great seamstress and fabulous at crosswords!! She was warm, witty, kind and caring and even though she has just slipped out of view for a while she will always be around for all of us who knew and loved her.
Farewell Kerry and rest in peace sweetheart. I will miss you. xx
Sharon McAuley
Honorary Finance Officer
IBOA The Finance Union
I worked closely with Kerry on the RBS European Works Council. I will remember her as a committed Trade Unionist but above all as a lovely, lovely person. She was the voice of reason but also the person who got everyone else laughing. She was a very brave woman and I will miss her terribly. Sleep well lovely lady.
Paul Wilkinson
Former Chair, RBS European Works Council &
Unite RBS National Company Committee Member
First and foremost my thoughts and prayers go out to Kerry's family. May God give you the strength to endure what must be the hardest of times.
My thoughts then go to Kerry. A true colleague and leader and a privilege to know her. So many people have so much to thank her for, and many of them may not even realise it. She stood up for all members and made the case fearlessly for what she believed in, and helped others to find the strength to believe in it too. We have all lost a true friend and she will be sadly missed by so many in so many ways.
Rest in Peace
Peter Cannell
IBOA member, Ulster Bank
This is a very sad day and my condolences go to Kerry's family. We only met up a few times each year as part of the EECC and only recently a few weeks ago and in true Kerry spirit she was as positive as ever. I will miss her dearly and my thoughts are with you all.
God bless Kerry
x
Karen Pilcher
I have known Kerry for 11 years and right from the off we got on well. From the first day I met her, I admired her strength and over the years I gained so much respect for her. The last time I spoke to her she was giving me advice on a friend who was terminally ill at the time to pass onto her (which I did). As always she gave me a giggle and I was left with my usual admiration for her when I left her that day a few weeks ago. Sadly my friend has passed also and I hope her and Kerry will meet up and have a wee glass of wine together - both strong inspirational women whose strength will live with me forever. xxxx
Joanne Hughes
I was terribly saddened to learn of Kerry's death earlier today.
I first met Kerry many years ago when we were both on Relief staff and I always found her to be very helpful, approachable, and you knew where you stood with her. She was a strong ally to have in your corner when you needed someone, as I found when she was a great support to me during a case involving my sickness record after the death of my son.
I always knew if I needed someone to fight my case, there was no better person to ask than Kerry.
She was a truly inspiring example to everyone in regard to her dedication and commitment to the IBOA and her colleagues whom she represented, especially in the past year during her illness.
She will be sadly missed by many.
Sincere condolences to her family and also to her many friends and fellow members and officers in IBOA.
REST IN PEACE KERRY - GOD BLESS
Bronagh Rice
It is with tragedy that we sit here and pass on our condolences to the Kerry's family and friends.
Kerry was the voice of the "little" people the people who needed support and guidance in difficult situations and didn't necessarily have the voice or the courage to stand up.
Kerry donated so much off her own time and was a completely selfless person. Even during her own sickness she continued to work on supporting everyone that needed help.
Kerry was an asset to anything she contributed to and I'm sure she will be greatly missed by everyone. Kerry's drive and courage was a quality to be proud off. I can only hope that we all can show some of the same qualities in our daily lives.
Kerry, you will be missed greatly.
She was an inspiration and a credit to anyone who knew her. Our lives will be much more sombre without her.
In the journey of life some people leave a mark so deep that it becomes hard to forget them.
May you find peace and love in the memories you cherish.
With heartfelt condolences.
Carla Agnew
Business Support, Financial Planning
Ulster Bank Limited
11-16 Donegall Square East
Belfast
I was so deeply saddened to hear the news about Kerry.
My thoughts are with Stephen and her wonderful "girls" during this difficult time. I am still in a state of shock from the news.
I remember Kerry's calmness, level headedness and dry sense of humor but most of all her kindness (and her amazing mince pies).
I will miss her.
Holding you always in my thoughts, Kerry.
Rosemary Platt (IBOA)
I first met Kerry when I joined Ulster Bank and at my induction training Kerry came in and placed a Union membership form in front of me. A few years later I got to know Kerry a lot more when I ''volunteered'' to be a Bank Secretary after a conversation with Kerry in the Bankers club.
Kerry was one of the kindest and caring people I have been privileged to know and I will miss her greatly. Kerry's courage, commitment and dedication for fighting for what she believed in was truly inspirational. Kerry was always there for you day or night. Even at the times she should only of been thinking of herself, she was there fighting in people's corners.
My thoughts and prayers go out to Kerry's family at this difficult time.
Goodbye Kerry
May you Rest In Peace.
Eamonn Vize
IBOA Bank Secretary
Belfast & District
Kerry with members of the Ulster Bank Executive team at dinner recently.What can I say about Kerry that has not already been said, I have known Kerry for nearly all of the 30 years that she worked for Ulster Bank but I am privileged to be a friend for 15 of those years.
Kerry has a wicked sense of humour and a very dry wit; we have shed many a tear together but laughed much more.
Family is everything to Kerry and I know that her greatest achievement by far is that of a mother to Olivia and Amy of whom she is immensely proud.
My sincere sympathy to Stephen, Olivia, Amy, Megan, Marjorie, Garth and the wider family circle for the loss of Kerry. May they gain strength from all the lovely memories they hold in their hearts.
‘A smile for all, a heart of gold, one of the best this world could hold.
Never selfish, always kind, these are the memories you leave behind.'
I cannot find the words that could possibly do justice to Kerry - I will miss you my friend.
Colleen Shaw
Friend and former colleague
Kerry, you were an inspiration and friend to all.
You will be greatly missed by everyone who knew and loved you.
Much love to Stephen, Olivia and Amy. X
Jill Rooney
I was terribly upset to learn of the passing of Kerry.
She was a source of comfort and fortitude to so many people in the most difficult of situations. She lived her life for the benefit of others and in that she was remarkably successful in so many ways.
An inspiration and example to us all right to the very end.
May you rest in peace, Kerry.
Ken Sims
To all in IBOA
I am deeply sorry to learn of the death of your colleague Kerry Christie. May she rest in peace.
My sympathy to you all and also to her family and friends.
Yours in sympathy
Mary Shovlin
Ulster Bank Letterkenny
I am deeply saddened to hear the news about Kerry. She was an inspiration and delight to deal with at all times. She battled her illness with the courage that she displayed on a daily basis for as long as I have known her. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to Stephen, Olivia and Amy.
You will be remembered and greatly missed
Robert Thompson
Danske Bank Group Officer
IBOA The Finance Union
Very sad to hear the news about Kerry and my thoughts are with her family at this time.
Only met up a few weeks ago in London, so came as a shock hearing the news.
i will miss her wicked laugh and smile and her friendship over the past 9 years.
From all your friends and colleagues on the EWC, RBS European Works Council and everyone from Unite the union who you met.
Stephen A Smith
Unite Chair RBS NCC 2007 to June 2011
It was great to have known Kerry through work and thank you for all your help (as recently as the beginning of this month).
With deepest sympathy,
Ronan
Ronan Forester
Belfast Customer Service Centre
Business Services Ireland
Ulster Bank Ltd
Danesfort
It was with a deep sense of shock that I learned yesterday from Larry of the sudden death of Kerry. I remember Kerry as a "happy go lucky" person, feisty in negotiation and full of the joys of life. She was a tough but fair negotiator, pleasant to socialise with and a fiercely proud Ulsterwoman!
She lived for her family - with great pride in Olivia and Amy's achievements and - her professional work in Ulster Bank and her continued dedication to the IBOA. She was a source of strength and commitment to all of them.
She was full of spirit, enjoyed the banter over meals and the shopping in Dublin. She and Jaynette would always tell me of the Sterling/Euro differential during breaks in negotiation!
Occasionally when I was at my wits' end for the compromise or for arbitration to be accepted she would try to charm me with a request for another quarter or half per cent. She sometimes won! "After all" she used to say, "it's Christmas"!
I am minded also on this occasion to think of Mary as well - two good staff, two able negotiators, two good "IBOA people". If there are red shoes in Heaven, Kerry will be wearing them!
My sincere sympathy to her family, friends and colleagues in Ulster Bank and the IBOA.
Ni bheidh a leithead ann arís.
A sad farewell,
Kieran Mulvey
Chief Executive
Labour Relations Commission
It is with deep sadness that we record the death of our colleague Kerry Christie. Kerry had been battling cancer over the past year with tremendous courage.
Kerry started work in Ulster Bank thirty years ago today at Knock branch and more latterly working in Business Services in Belfast. During this time as many of you know she was an active and dedicated member of the IBOA and was elected onto the Executive Committee in 1990. Kerry was also a member of the former NatWest European Staff Council and was at the time of her death Joint Chair of the RBS European Works Council.
Kerry embraced life to the full and was courageous and determined in everything she did. Our condolences go to Kerry's husband Stephen, daughters Olivia and Amy, friends and her colleagues on the Ulster Bank Executive Committee.
Steve Daniels
Head of Human Resources
Ulster Bank
I first met Kerry in Ormeau Road branch way back in the early 1990s - she was there on Relief and seemed to be known to all as 'Kerry from the Union'.
Our paths crossed again in Knock branch several years later where along with a new entrant, Karen, we formed a close friendship - affectionately referring to ourselves as the 3 witches.
I remember there being much upheaval in the bank at this time and I was swept along with the passion Kerry always showed in her belief of what was right for her colleagues. If Kerry asked you to do something, you knew that she was asking for a good reason.
In latter years I worked with Kerry in Danesfort, on many occasions making my way to her desk looking for advice or just a chat. She always had time for everyone and made you feel as if nothing was too much trouble.
There are so many words to describe Kerry. I have tried over the last few days to explain to those who had never met her just what a great woman she was - but I can't.
She taught me so much. She helped me through so many scrapes. She was a confidante. She was funny. She was determined. She was generous and kind. She loved a glass of champagne. She was the proudest mum and above all she was a friend.
I don't believe i will be so lucky to meet again someone who has surely made an impression on so many.
May Stephen, Olivia, Amy, her family and friends take comfort from knowing she is at peace now and watching over us.
I miss you and love you very much ( from one witch to another!)
Ally P xxx
Allyson Phillips
Friend and former colleague
I was so very deeply saddened to hear the news about Kerry. I only knew Kerry for 4 years but she was such an inspirational person and anyone who knew her will never forget her. Even when she was ill she always had a smile on her face. It was a privilege to know her.
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to Stephen, Olivia and Amy. She was so proud of her "girls".
Eileen
Eileen Gorman
IBOA Northern Bank Executive Committee Member
I first met Kerry in 2007 at the RBS European Works Council meeting where in her own inimitable way she made an instant impression on me. Over the last few years we worked together and became good colleagues and friends.
I was fortunate enough to see her just a couple of weeks ago in London when she signed the new RBS ECC Agreement and as ever she was tireless in her efforts in working for the benefit of her RBS colleagues - a superb and lasting achievement!
We enjoyed a good chat, some laughs and a wee night out in London and like everyone else I was so shocked and saddened to hear the news of her passing. She will be remembered fondly by all her friends and colleagues at Unite the Union - a real character, inspirational woman and fighter to the end.
My sincere condolences to Kerry's family, friends and all at the IBOA - you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Alison Maclean
Joint Lead Officer
Unite the Union - RBS Section
Kerry was one of the most amazing people I have ever known. She was kind, caring, supportive, strong, honest and inspirational. She was loved by everyone who knew her and will be sorely missed.
My heartfelt condolences to her family at this time.
Arlene
Arlene McKinney
Cards
Ulster Bank Group
Where do you start with Kerry? Dedicated, hard working, a natural instinct for what was fair and equitable, the protection of workers' rights. Everything members need in a trade union official. Kerry was all of these and more.
Despite the battle against her illness Kerry continued to represent the rights of members. This extended far beyond Ulster Bank. Kerry's work in bringing together a combined European Works Council (EWC) for RBS was her vision and passion over the last year. This vision was fulfilled and just three weeks ago Kerry was a signatory to a new EWC Agreement. A lasting legacy for an inspirational individual.
Kerry's dedication and contribution to IBOA is without question. She was particularly protective of members in Business Services (formally Manufacturing) and ensured their views were not lost in a larger debate. I can't express how much I am going to miss her contribution at Executive meetings and those with the employer.
If you felt down Kerry would pick you up. You couldn't help but be infected by her positive attitude - even when she was struggling in her latest battle against a terrible illness.
My heartfelt condolences go the Stephen, Amy and Olivia ("My Girls" as Kerry would say), to her sister Megan and the family circle.
Kerry, you will be missed, but the stories of your contribution to IBOA will live on.
Steve Tweed
Senior Industrial Relations Officer
IBOA The Finance Union
I have carried out a number of consulting assignments for IBOA, including one where Paul Mooney and I worked together. Kerry was involved in each of these either as a national or bank executive committee member. I really liked her as a person.
She was very genuine in her commitment to bank officials generally and Ulster Bank members in particular. She talked occasionally about her illness and it was clear that if courage and determination alone could have beaten the illness that she'd still be here today.
My condolences to her family and colleagues.
Best Regards
John
John O'Dowd
John O'Dowd Consultants Ltd
Dunshaughlin
Heartfelt sympathy to the family of Kerry. May she rest in peace.
I only worked with Kerry for a short while and was always amazed by her courage and strength. It was a privillege to have known her.
Kitty O'Reilly
IBOA Pensioner
When Coleman Moore called me early on Tuesday morning with the news of Kerry's passing I can only say that I was shocked.
While rarely directly involved with Kerry or indeed the Ulster Bank Executive in my tenure in IBOA I was aware of Kerry's commitment to the cause of her members. I know that John, Tommy and the rest of the Executive will greatly miss her advice, her wit and her sense of justice.
The staff in IBOA I know will also miss her as she was always a lady. On the one hand she could be dealing with a very serious issue in relation to the Union, while at the same time she would have time to have a laugh and joke with staff.
The staff in IBOA I expect will also miss her baking as any time she brought her home baking into the office it was wolfed down by all.
I would like to pass on my heart felt condolences to Stephen, Amy and Olivia.
Billy Barrett
Formerly IBOA Industrial Relations Officer
Special memories of 20 years of friendship and great nights out together with Colleen Shaw. It has been a privilege to work with you, and have your support in many situations in and out of work - that support you also gave to so many people.
You will be very much missed and my thoughts are with Stephen, Amy, Olivia, Megan and all the family circle.
Love Beverly
Beverly
I want to start by saying that I loved Kerry. She had more of an impact in my life than probably anyone else I know. She inspired me, and made me a better person. Kerry was my teacher. She taught me to use my forwardness to support colleagues in need, and she taught me well. Kerry encouraged me to become active in IBOA, and along with her fellow EC members, she helped me to become, like her, a defender of our colleagues.
I've seen the difference Kerry has made in peoples lives and it has been huge. She worked with her EC colleagues to get staff a better deal, but spent most of her time trying to help individuals in distress. Everyone knew her mobile number (I gave it out like I worked in 118 118), and she always had a planner to set aside time for whomever needed her.
Always running somewhere else, Kerry had very little time to talk, but she kept on talking! Things that made her stand out from the crowd. The name Kerry Christie, will be known in Ulster Bank and IBOA for a very long time.
She was my friend. Kerry always helped me deal with my personal issues and see the bigger picture. She was my "go to girl" for all things big and small, and took me as she found me. Always helping me (sometimes by giving me a slap). Kerry taught me how to create a dignity free zone and always called me her Diversity Champion, telling me that I had diversity all wrapped up. She was a woman who pushed boundaries.
I felt like I knew the Christie's inside out. Kerry always had a story to tell.. Mostly about Amy! But Steven, Olivia and Megan always featured regularly and she loved them all so much. She was part of a very intelligent household and I hope that her work for many hundreds of people, will inspire the people Kerry has left behind, to be more like her.
My thoughts and prayers are with Steven, Megan, Olivia and Amy.
I love and miss you, and I will never forget you. Thank you for being in my life.
Patrick
Patrick McCann
Her sense of humour was fantastic; her professionalism was outstanding; an inspirational to all she came in contact with.
We'll miss her big time.
Liz Ward
Customer Adjustments
CSC Danesfort
A very special lady!
I will never forget the support, guidance & friendship Kerry gave me over the past 10 years.
Kerry had values, and lived life through those values. She worked tirelessly to ensure that everyone who came to her, got the support they required on a number of levels.
Right up until the end of her fight, Kerry continued positively helping others, and making a difference - that is something I can only admire.
Kerry's support to me at all times cannot & will not ever be forgotten. Her courage, bravery & strength through her difficult times was, and will remain to be inspirational & we should all learn from her.
Kerry, I'll miss you. My thoughts are with your family.
Sleep tight.
Catherine Hill
BSI,
Ulster Bank
Kerry, I will always remember your smile and your laughter, you are an inspiration and to be admired for the fight that you put up against your illness.
You will genuinely be missed but I know now that you are at peace and have no more suffering.
The angels will be with you now.
Love
Babs
xo
Barbara Stewart
Ulster Bank
I was extremely shocked when I was told of the death of Kerry. When I joined IBOA in 2003 one of my main briefs was to represent the members in Ulster Bank. Kerry was the Bank Officer and she was a great support and guidance to me. I could not have done my job to the standard without her help.
Kerry was a great champion of the rights of her members. What struck me most about Kerry was her love for her family. She was very proud of her daughters' achievements and always talking about them.
On a lighter note she was a person who was very jovial and one you could gave a good joke with. I used to enjoy when she arrived in the office with a box of cakes that she baked and can confirm that around me they didn't last long.
She will be greatly missed by her work and union colleagues and my sympathies go the her family, Stephen, Amy and Olivia.
Kerry, may you rest in peace you will be greatly missed.
Michael Meegan
Divisional Organiser
Mandate Trade Union
Today I said goodbye to possibly the most inspirational woman I have ever met. Kerry Christie was one of a kind, the sort of friend you rarely meet in life.
Her battle is over but she leaves behind two amazing daughters & a devoted husband who were her life. I am just thankful to have the privilege to know her & be her friend.
Thank you Kerry, just for being you, I will never forget you.
With love & sadness
Nadine Steffi Kittle
Kerry was a truly inspirational person and I wish I had been able to get to know her better. She made you feel at ease regardless of the suffering she was experiencing.
Her husband and daughters are in no doubt blessed to have had her in their lives.
Kerry
I did not see you close your eyes nor hear your last faint sight,
i only heard that you were gone to late for me to say goodbye !
I feel incredibly lucky to have met you and i will continue to be inspired by your strength and courage.
Helen Fry
Ulster Bank Antrim
We were deeply sorry to hear the sad news about Kerry. She was a wonderful positive person with a great sense of humour. When Kerry came into our office the mood would automatically be lifted.
The way Kerry dealt with her illness was a true inspiration to us all. It was a pleasure to be a part of the same team and we will miss her very much.
Rita Flynn and Mary Cassidy
IBOA Staff (Ulster Bank Team)
I first met Kerry back in the early 80s when we both served on the Belfast Ladies Committee. Kerry was a straight talker and couldn't understand why we needed a "Ladies Committee". Kerry even back then work tirelessly to champion justice and the rights of others.
She was enthusiastic, motivated and packed every day to the full. Kerry loved life! Despite the busy schedule she was never too busy to stop for a chat (she did most of the talking).
Over the years we met many times and always had stories to share. Kerry always kept me up to date on "the girls" and equally wanted updates on my two children. Many laughs and happy times were shared in the Bankers' Club, organising and planning events. Kerry lived her life to the full and her illness was just another battle to be fought. She was an inspiration to those who knew her.
I met Kerry recently with a friend who is also battling cancer. Kerry made it her business to spend time with my friend, offering support and words of advice and encouragement.
It's been my privilege to have known Kerry. I wish to extend my deepest sympathy to Stephen, Olivia and Amy.
Rest in peace, Kerry. Your memory lives on.
Peri
Peri Mullan
Bank Secretary
First Trust Bank
I have known Kerry for virtually her entire career in the bank, and am profoundly saddened to hear of her death.
I was on annual leave when Kerry died, and will always regret I was unable to attend her funeral.
Kerry was passionate in defending the interest of her members, but was also a committed employee of Ulster Bank. I was her line manager for a couple of years, and always found her easy to work with and very aware of the difficulties she faced as she sought to balance her IBOA and bank responsibilities. Unfortunately, there were some who saw Kerry as a disruptive influence on the staff with whom she worked, perhaps when they read the tributes to her they will realise just how wide of the mark they were.
Through everything, Kerry refused to be intimidated, and I witnessed many situations in which her calm and reasoning approach diffused situations which could quickly have escalated out of control.
Kerry was a valued friend and confidante, I will miss her terribly even though in recent years we did not have as much contact as in the past. She was immensely proud of her family, especially her daughters. Just a few weeks before she died, I was privileged to spend some time with her, and her determination to see them graduate was inspiring and humbling. Kerry always remained positive, even after her surgery and the return of her cancer.
She was an inspiration to me as well as many others, and a valued confidante, colleague and above all, friend. I have fond and happy memories of Kerry. She is an immense loss not just to IBOA, but to Ulster Bank. Few people knew just how much time she spent representing the interests of members, right up to the European Council.
I would like to extend my sincere sympathy to her family. Individuals like Kerry only come along very rarely. It was a privilege to know her and work with her
Regards
Desmond
Desmond Clarke
OSAC (Northern) Ireland
Ulster Bank
Donegal Square East
Belfast
Kerry was such a wonderful person & dear colleague. I have known Kerry for quite a few years as I have similar if not more service. Kerry was always willing to go out of her way to help people & she gave me some sound advice over the years which I greatly appreciated.
I would like to convey my condolences to the family & having lost my dear partner 3 years ago to that dreadful fate, i know what you are all going through. I also know that Kerry is at peace now & will be looking after you all & watching over you.
God bless her & may God have mercy on her soul.
Sincere condolences
Geraldine Smyth
Crossgar
I personally felt that Kerry was always there 100% for any issue that I raised with her.
She made me feel optimistic that things would come out well and I certainly owe her a lot.
She will be sorely missed on so many levels.
Patricia Schreiber
Credit Controller
Collections & Recoveries
UBG, Danesfort
When I joined the Northern Bank Executive team in IBOA, I came on with Jaynette Stirling from Ulster Bank. She introduced me to her frend and colleague, Kerry Christie. The three of us soon formed a strong bond. It was a friendship that grew and deepened over the next ten years. During the time I knew her, I heard Kerry fight fiercely for those she believed in and defend those who asked for her help. She believed so strongly in what she did with the Uniion.
Kerry had a zest for life. I can't believe we won't have another week-end together, share another bottle of champagne or have a long mid-night chat in our hotel room as we put the world to rights, as we three so often did.
My heartfelt sympathy to Stephen, Olivia, Amy and her other close family and friends.
Kerry, I am so proud to have known you, to have shared time with you and so privileged to have been your friend.
Rest peacefully, sweetheart. Talk to me now and then.
Love you loads xx
Moya
Moya Cotton
Member of Northern Bank Execuitve Committee, IBOA
I left Ulster Bank some 10 years ago, but will never forget Kerry's kindness when I went through a particularly difficult time in my employment. She was not only a great 'union' support to me - she was a friend. Always there to lend a hand and provide a shoulder to lean on.
I was so sad to hear that she had passed away and just want to pass on my sympathies to her family. There are a few people you meet in life who really make a difference to the direction you are going in - Kerry was one of those people.
Caroline
Caroline Bell
Centre Manager
People 1st
91-97 Ormeau Road
Belfast
I have just tonight learned of Kerry's passing and am deeply shocked. I first met Kerry in 2005 and still remember her telling me of her illness. She said "I've something to tell you and you are not to be sad" she told me about the cancer and said "I will fight this!". Even when she was dealing with personal tragedy she was always thinking of others.
I left the bank shortly after that and tonight for some reason she popped into my head and I don't know why but I googled her and found put the tragic news of her passing.
Heaven has definitely claimed one of its own back. They obviously needed her too much to let her stay with us as long as we would have liked.
Rest in peace Kerry. And to her family I can only say how proud they must be to have had her in their lives even if was only for a short time.
Linzi McGaughey
Formerly of Belfast City Business Centre
Ulster Bank
