It is with immense sadness that I to inform you that Harriet Webster, our Executive Director, died yesterday of complications from myelodysplastic syndrome.

Our thoughts and prayers are with her husband Charlie, her sons David, Matt and Ben and all of her family during this difficult time.

In the fall of 2001, when it was clear that she was not going to be our next

Mayor, I went to her with a job offer and the concept of a maritime center at Harbor Loop. In early 2002 Harriet agreed to join us, and nothing changed the course of events more than her decision. For almost ten years Harriet was the rock that anchored what has become the Gloucester Maritime Heritage Center. Right from the start Harriet was the person to go to for almost every detail of operations from when the tent would go up to negotiating a complicated loan with Mass Development. As one of the people who worked closest with her I watched as the Center grew and she stepped up and met every challenge with enthusiasm and the talent to ensure that it would be done well. Harriet Webster was a one-of-a-kind person who made the Heritage Center a reality by sheer dint of her will.

A group of board members and staff met this morning to try and figure what to do next. The idea of writing a job description to cover her position was discarded as impossible. Harriet’s unique abilities will never be replaced in any one individual. It was fate that brought us together ten years ago and now it will be our job to carry on without her if for no other reason, because of her.

Later in the summer there will be a celebration of her life at the Heritage Center. I will make sure everyone is notified.

Sincerely,

Geoffrey H. Richon, President

Back in March Harriett filled out one of our GMG Gloucester Questionnaires

This is what she had to say about her favorite things in Gloucester-

GMG Questions and Answers- Harriet Webster