Kristin (Grafton) Neal-Stoodt

The world lost one of its kindest, most gentle souls on August 20, 2014, with the passing of Kristin (Grafton) Neal- Stoodt, 55. Her love was unconditional. Her heart was as big as the sky. Her calmness and reassurance answered uncertainty. Beloved daughter, companion, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend; she will continue to live in our hearts.

Kristin graced the lives of devoted mother, Betty Colleen and the late, Joel Grafton, April 17,1959. She was a caring and compassionate companion to her “special someone”, Steve Volz. “Momma bear” to her beloved “cubs” and children, Amanda (Michael) Carpenter, Andrea (Zack) Alleshouse and Cody Stoodt. Fun-loving “mommo” to her rays of sunshine and granddaughters, Keirstyn Carpenter and Allaura Carpenter. She was blessed to have sister, Sabra Grafton, forever by her side and was an awesome aunt to JJ (Regina) Carr and their adored son, Jacob. All special in her heart, she leaves numerous cousins, co-workers and friends to remember the good times.

From beautiful sunrise to glorious sunset, her most joyful and happy days were spent with her family that she so loved. Dragonflies, bomb pops, lilacs, Highrise Chocolate Cake, St. Peter’s Church, art -in all forms, steak-on-a-stick, shopping trips, drinking wine, stained glass, stringing popcorn and cranberries at Christmas, and cotton candy - these were a few of her favorite things! Favorite things she unselfishly shared were not “things” but life’s lessons - cultivating kindness, practicing understanding, the gift of laughter, and the importance of family. However, her culinary expertise was unrivaled when it came to prime rib and marzetti!

Her career in the medical field allowed her to extend her overwhelming compassion to patients and their families. With a loving heart and helping hands, she had previously been employed at the former Mansfield General Hospital, LifeCare Ambulance, Mid-Ohio Heart and present-day employer, the office of Dr. Richardson. Demonstrated by her commitment to helping all people, she immeasurably enjoyed making a difference in the lives of others.

Per Kristin’s wishes, family and friends are invited to celebrate a life well-lived Saturday August 30, 2014 from 2-6 pm in the Exhibit Hall at Kingwood Center. Given Kristin’s aficionado for everything blooming, she would ask that you “stop and smell the roses”, bask in the surrounding beauty, and spy a hummingbird. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Steve and Kristin’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all who have offered comfort during this difficult journey. Your expressions of care, concern and love have left indelible impressions on our hearts.

Thoughts and remembrances of Kristin may be made at www.wappner.com

Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier. - Mother Teresa