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Smith, Carissa Amber

July 10, 1983 –
 February 4, 2016

Obituary

Carissa Amber Smith, age 32, of Allen, Texas passed away at her home on Thursday, February 4th 2016. Carissa was born on July 10th 1983 to John Gillam Preslar Jr. and Bonnie Sue Odell in Austin, Texas as the youngest of three children. She grew up with her family in Dripping Springs, Texas and would later graduate from Dripping Springs High School where she enjoyed her friendships and her time as a drum major for the marching band. After graduation and some college experience Carissa began working in human recourses. Work led her to meeting Robert Howe Smith and the two eventually married on May 25th 2008. Carissa always had an ear for music. She was part of the church choir as a young girl, loved singing karaoke and always found time to enjoy her passion for singing. More than anything, she adored her children, Bella and Barrett.   Carissa is survived by her husband of 8 years, Robert Howe Smith, her daughter, Bella, her son, Barrett, her parents, two brothers and a host of extended family and cherished friends.  

Memorial Service 01:00 P.M., Sunday, February 14th 2016 Fitzhugh Baptist Church 11607 Crumley Ranch Road Austin, Texas 78738

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation in Carissa’s name to Esteem Hospice Att: Gwen, 2459 Hebron Parkway, Carrollton, TX 75010 or to Nexus, 8733 La Prada Drive, Dallas, TX 75228     Arrangements are under the direction of: ARIA Cremation Service & Funeral Home 19310 Preston Road, Dallas, Texas 75252 214-306-6700    

    Marilyn Curry
    9 Feb 2016
    7:21pm

    Bonnie, so sorry to hear of Carissa’s passing. Please know I will keep you in prayer.

    Venessa
    9 Feb 2016
    8:32pm

    I love and miss you so freaking much. I know you’re loving on Jesus right now but man, I miss you. I am so thankful to have you in my life. Love you sweet girl.

    Jillian Powers
    9 Feb 2016
    9:06pm

    Sweetheart, Too young, too soon. You will truly be missed!

    Larry & Gerrie Biesenbach
    9 Feb 2016
    10:04pm

    Our thoughts & prayers are with y’all.

    Diane Dikes
    9 Feb 2016
    10:23pm

    My deepest sympathy goes out to you Bonnie and John. It is the hardest thing to bury your child. No matter how old they are. I remember Carissa running around baseball fields, football and badketball bleachers and school functions all those years ago. Cute little thing with freckles across her nose. I don’t know how correct I am but that is how I recall her. Always so friendly and huggable! My prayers for you both and Trey and Matt. God hold you all close. Sincerely and from my Parents heart to ya’lls.

    Heidi Petmecky
    10 Feb 2016
    7:04am

    My heart aches for this tremendous loss of Carissa’s family. I have many fond childhood memories of us growing up together in Dripping Springs. She had such a warm smile and heart. My sincerest condolences to the entire family.

    Linda Dunlap
    10 Feb 2016
    2:18pm

    The way she smiled could break your heart. She made every room brighter. Our sympathies, Larry and Linda

    Katherine Thoreson
    10 Feb 2016
    4:35pm

    I just wanted to say that although Carissa and I were never super close, I always considered her a friend. We were in school together, same class, since second grade. We were in band together since 6th grade. She was always so thoughtful and kind and could make anyone smile. She was a beautiful soul, and I was shocked to learn of her passing. My condolences to her family.

    Alice Zachardy
    10 Feb 2016
    9:17pm

    I’m very saddened and my prayers are with Rissa’s family. Especially Robert, Bella, and Barrett. I’m thinking of you and praying for you all.

    Sandy Gravenor
    10 Feb 2016
    9:19pm

    I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

    Jennifer Becker
    10 Feb 2016
    9:36pm

    My thoughts and prayers go out out to the children and family. May God watch over you during this difficult time.

    Mary Jean Owens
    10 Feb 2016
    11:44pm

    I am so sorry to learn of the loss of this loved one. May you all find comfort in God’s hand, shared memories, and the love of friends and family.

    Barbara Odell Barletta
    11 Feb 2016
    9:37am

    I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your beautiful daughter! God Bless you all! Sending much love from California.

    Carla Merritt
    11 Feb 2016
    1:03pm

    It grieves me so to hear of Rissa’s passing. My prayers are with Bella, Berret and Robert. May God’s peace be with you, her loving family during this time. All my love.

    Catherine & Carl Nelson
    11 Feb 2016
    6:49pm

    Carissa was a wonderful girl. She had a wonderful sense of humor and a loving heart. Our sincere sorrow goes out to all of her family and friends. She is now a real angel. From The Nelson Family.

    Abe Campos
    12 Feb 2016
    10:03pm

    May gods arms hold you close and may you rest in peace. You will forever be in the hearts of all that loved you..

    Mike and Eva Schwartz
    13 Feb 2016
    12:33am

    We are so sorry for your loss. Our prayer is peace and comfort in this time of sorrow. We are here for you if you need anything.

    Theresa Schwartz-Ivey
    13 Feb 2016
    7:41am

    I was so sadened when mom told me. I am so sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with your whole family.

    The Dillow family
    13 Feb 2016
    5:56pm

    I was so heartbroken when I heard the news. Rissa was such a great friend to me and I am truly sorry for all those who lost such a wonderful person in their lives like I did. My heart hurts for her children and Robert and I will keep her family in my prayers.

    Alina, Eyrick & Garrison
    13 Feb 2016
    8:42pm

    Our hearts are breaking over the loss of our beautiful Rissa. Her light will continue to shine as she lives on in our hearts for infinity. We send love and peace to Robert, Bella, Barrett and family.

    Robin & Keith Miller
    14 Feb 2016
    9:00am

    Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

    Natalie Mills
    5 Apr 2016
    7:14am

    I’m so sorry and saddened to hear about Rissa’s passing. I met her last year in Dallas and was amazed at her intelligence and demeanor. I pray for Bella, Barrett, and Robert. She is now among the angels in heaven.

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"I can’t say enough about how helpful and professional Dusty Martin, the funeral director at the Aria Cremation location on NW Highway has been. From my initial call, he was kind and informative. My friend died at home while on hospice and she was picked up in about an hour after receiving the call from the hospice nurse. The person who arrived to pick her up was also very professional/respectful and allowed us to take as much time with her as we wished. When I met with Dusty the next day about arrangements, he explained the process and options available without being pushy or trying to “sell” extras. Throughout the process, he kept me informed and, for example, was careful to be certain I understood the cost of the obituary I wanted and offered some options for reducing that cost if I wished. When I stopped by for another reason and started talking about some of the problems I was having with the pictures and media I hoped to use at a memorial lunch I was planning, he not only listened patiently but offered technology advice and let me use his personal media player. I have had experience arranging cremations for four others using two other local companies, and this experience with Dusty at Aria has been by far the best one I have had."
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