Christine Ell Ritchie Obituary: Remembering a Visionary Scientist and Beloved Community Member
Christine Ell Ritchie, a cherished member of the Auburn High School Class of 1984, passed away on May 13, 2025, in Baltimore, Maryland. Her unexpected death has left a profound void in the hearts of her classmates, colleagues, and family. Christine was not only a brilliant scientist but also a compassionate individual whose legacy continues to inspire.
Early Life and Education
Born and raised in Auburn, New York, Christine Ell Ritchie was known for her inquisitive nature and a deep passion for learning. Her academic journey began at Auburn High School, where she excelled in her studies and formed lasting friendships. After graduating in 1984, she pursued higher education with determination and focus.
Christine attended Simon’s Rock College, earning an Associate of Arts degree in Liberal Arts in 1984. She then transferred to Johns Hopkins University, where she completed her Bachelor of Arts in Physics in 1987. Her academic pursuits culminated in a Master of Arts in Physics and Astronomy from Johns Hopkins University in 1989. This solid educational foundation set the stage for her remarkable career in science. citeturn0search0
Professional Career
Christine’s professional journey began at the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1989. She started as a Data Analyst, where she worked on various science instrument teams, crafting calibration files, testing calibration pipelines, and developing scripts to aid in the analysis of calibration data. Her dedication and expertise quickly became evident, earning her local fame as the ‘Retriever of most images from DADS’ for months on end. citeturn0search0
In 1998, Christine transitioned to the role of Test Engineer at STScI, where she became a Principal Test Engineer. Her responsibilities included creating test plans, writing test cases, executing test scripts, and documenting test reports for various software systems, including APT, TRANS, POPS, and HST and JWST DB testing. Her work was instrumental in the design and testing of mechanisms that allowed the Hubble Space Telescope to peer into the farthest reaches of space. Christine’s contributions to the Hubble Space Telescope’s achievements have been recognized by the Space Foundation, which honored the historic Hubble Space Telescope repair mission team with the 2010 Space Achievement Award. citeturn0search3
Personal Life and Community Involvement
Outside of her professional endeavors, Christine was deeply committed to her family and community. She was a devoted sister to Karyn (Chi) Brundige and a loving wife to Eric Morse. Their bond, built on mutual respect, admiration, and love, was evident to all who knew them. Together, Christine and Eric shared not only a home but also a profound appreciation for life’s wonders—whether in the sky above or in the quiet, beautiful moments between them.
Christine’s presence at Auburn High School reunions and her ongoing connections with many friends from AHS served as a testament to the relationships she nurtured over decades. Her classmates remember her not only for her sharp intellect but also for her warm heart. Even as a teenager, Christine stood out—kind, curious, and deeply thoughtful. She brought light into every room she entered and left it better than she found it.
Legacy and Impact
Christine’s legacy extends far beyond her professional achievements. Her work on the Hubble Space Telescope has had a lasting impact on the field of astronomy, helping humanity understand its place in the cosmos. Her contributions continue to inspire future generations of scientists, especially women in science and engineering. As one former colleague shared, “Christine was more than planet engines; she was an inspiration, especially to women in science and engineering.”
The Auburn High School Class of 1984 mourns this tremendous loss but also celebrates Christine’s extraordinary life. Her wit, her genius, and her grace remain deeply etched in our memories. To all of Christine’s many friends from AHS and beyond, our hearts are with you. She was a cherished part of our lives, and her absence will be deeply felt.
Final Thoughts
As we remember Christine Ell Ritchie, let us reflect on the stars she helped us see and the boundless horizons she leaves behind as her legacy. The next time you look up at the night sky, take a moment to remember Christine. Think of the stars she helped us see and the boundaries she pushed in the pursuit of knowledge. Her work and her spirit continue to inspire, reminding us of the profound impact one individual can have on the world.
