Karissa Nikole Smith

Karissa Nikole Smith passed away suddenly at the age of 35 on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.

Karissa was born on April 3, 1990, in San Diego, California, where she was raised by her loving parents, Craig and Sheri Smith. From an early age she was drawn to the natural beauty of the world, and ideas of peace, justice and understanding. Karissa graduated from Cathedral Catholic High School, and then went on to study international relations, peace studies, and journalism at the University of San Diego (USD)- reflecting her curiosity about the world and her desire to contribute something meaningful to it.

Some of Karissa’s happiest memories were dancing, playing soccer, meditating on the beach, horseback riding, and spending time at her family’s farm in Indiana, Pennsylvania - a dear place where her love of farming and devotion to the land first took root. After graduating college, she followed her calling east, moving from California to Pennsylvania to learn more about the ways of the land and to live in harmony with the rhythms of the earth. She later became a Master Gardener, a reflection of her care, patience, and rooted respect for nature.

Karissa eventually moved to Vermont, where she quickly found a home and deep connections within a community guided by sustainability, cooperation, and shared values. In May of 2023, Karissa welcomed her beloved daughter, Kitori and found her greatest calling in the role of motherhood. Kitori and the beauty of motherhood were truly the greatest joys of Karissa’s life. Karissa held Kitori at the center of her heart, hopes and dreams. Through motherhood, Karissa’s tender love, kindness and devotion shone most clearly.

This passion connected to Karissa’s heart of service led her next to explore training as a doula and she eventually planned to pursue midwifery studies. She had a passion to walk with other women on this life giving journey.

Karissa was raised in the Catholic faith and received all her sacraments. Though her spiritual journey through faith was complex and unique, her relationship with God always remained an important and meaningful part of her life, quietly shaping her values, compassion, and sense of purpose.

Karissa was deeply loved by her mother, Sharleen Mary Rellick-Smith, who passed away in 2023. She is survived by her beloved 3-year-old daughter, Kitori Cambiadora Bowler-Smith; her father, Craig Alan Smith of San Diego, California; her sister, Sharia Kimae Smith of Tulsa, Oklahoma; and many extended family members and friends who will miss her deeply.

Visitation will take place at 9:00 a.m., followed by the Rosary at 9:30 a.m. and a Mass of Christian Burial and Final Commendation at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 16, 2026, at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Stowe, Vermont. Funeral arrangements are under the care of DesGroseilliers Funeral Home (Doug and Nicole).

Karissa lived gently in the world. Her love—especially the love she shared with her daughter—along with her devotion to peace, beauty, and the earth, remains and will continue to grow through all who knew her.

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