Kristy Wilkerson didn't just move through the world; she "squeezed the essence out of every day." A woman of boundless energy and force of life, Kristy passed away unexpectedly on Monday, February 2, 2026.

Kristy was a beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, touching lives with her joyful nature wherever she went. Likewise, Kristy cherished her family and friends, making sure they were always well-taken care of.

Kristy was an intelligent and hardworking person. She started working at the young age of 15, often juggling multiple jobs and an active social life, all while maintaining an exemplary academic career, graduating as valedictorian from McDonald High School in 2002. Kristy was always so kind and caring, and she put those qualities to good use by choosing a career in nursing. She graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing, and she went on to earn a Master of Science Degree in Nursing Anesthesia in 2014. One of her favorite professional roles as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist was working with women in the Labor and Delivery Unit at Southern Maryland Hospital, and wherever she worked, her professional skillset, empathy, and compassion were a comfort to her patients and their families.

Kristy was well-known for her sense of adventure and fun-loving nature. Her grandpa captured that perfectly by nicknaming her “The Road Runner”. She had a passion for experiencing new places, food, and people, often jet-setting around the country and world. Some of her favorite places were the many National Parks she visited, being immersed in nature. Kristy also looked forward to her yearly trip to Lakeside, Ohio, to visit her Aunt Char, enjoying rock painting and other available activities.

Kristy was stellar at planning family trips and get-togethers since spending time together was one of her biggest joys. She would carefully plan every detail of each trip, including unique activities, making sure the time together was jam-packed with fun and love. Her family would never have had these life experiences if it weren’t for Kristy’s planning and generosity.

Although Kristy loved the adventure of travel, her home was always open to her loved ones. She welcomed family and friends into her home with open arms. Visitors were comforted by her presence, along with her ability to create homes that were

beautiful and inviting. Her knack for home decorating was only rivaled by her culinary skills, preparing delicious meals for all to enjoy. She was beyond a doubt a terrific hostess.

Kristy’s memory of joy will forever be cherished by her partner and husband, Gareth Lewis, their daughter, Nina Lewis, their fur-babies, Emry and Olive, her parents, Jodi and Richard Rostan, her sister, Lindy Goist, nephew, David Goist, niece, Laynie Goist, father-in-law and mother-in-law, Paul Lewis and Suzanne Grant-Lewis, brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Gavin and Astrid Nilsson-Lewis along with many extended family members and life-long and dear friends. Kristy was preceded in death by her grandparents, Julia and Joseph Barber, who were instrumental in her life.

Kristy’s memory will be honored with a Celebration of Life this summer. Plans will be forthcoming.

In honor of Kristy’s spirit of care and the hidden struggles many face, our family asks that you look out for one another. If you or a loved one is struggling with post-partum depression, please reach out for help. For postpartum depression, call 1-800-944-4773 for 24/7 free confidential support for pregnant and new moms. For mental health distress or a suicidal crisis, call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 for free and confidential support.