Kristin Karen Szilagyi

Kristin Karen Petolino Szilagyi, of Cranford, New Jersey, left this world suddenly on January 25, 2026, just one month after her 54th birthday. She is now surrounded by family and loved ones as her soul begins its next journey.

Born on December 21, 1971, Kristin was a beloved mother, daughter, sister, partner, and friend. She touched countless lives with her sharp sense of humor, warmth, creativity, and vibrant, outgoing spirit. Kristin had a rare ability to connect with anyone she met, offering empathy, generosity, and kindness freely to both loved ones and strangers alike.

Kristin dedicated her life to making the world around her more beautiful. For over 30 years, she worked as a cosmetologist, even opening her own salon early in her career. An exceptionally talented hairstylist and nail artist, her work was featured in industry publications including Nails Magazine, and she was truly a master of her craft. She named her creative work “Wicked Queen Designs,” after her favorite character, and a reflection of her edge, confidence, and signature style. Inspired by icons like Marilyn Monroe and Madonna, Kristin infused glamour into everything she touched – always with a touch of pink and a bit of sparkle. She also lovingly did hair and makeup for nearly all of her daughters’ school plays, musicals, and dance recitals.

Following her own life changing gastric bypass surgery, Kristin devoted herself to supporting others through their bariatric journeys. Her desire to help extended even further when she became an EMT and volunteered with Clark’s First Aid Squad for three years. Throughout her life, Kristin gave her time generously, always ready with an open ear and a shoulder to cry on.

Kristin was the life of the party. Her smile lit up every room, and she loved to dance – whether there was a dance floor or not. She loved music, especially 80s hair metal and country, played loud. She adored the beach, spending time at the Jersey Shore, celebrating Mardi Gras in Key West, and relaxing in Punta Cana and the Outer Banks. With her rebellious spirit, she never turned down the chance to hop on the back of a motorcycle, and never turned down a road trip. Above all, she loved gathering with family and made Christmas Eve a cherished annual tradition in her home. Despite years of health challenges, Kristin always searched for life’s silver linings and is now finally at peace and free from pain.

Kristin is survived by her mother, Patricia Petolino (Klimek); father, Daniel Petolino; daughters Madison and Nadia Szilagyi; sisters Josephine Jordan (Damian) and Trisha Guimares (Rob); brother Danny Petolino; partner Rob Pieretti; stepdaughter Samm Pieretti; former husband Julius Szilagyi; niece Monica Daly; nephews Damian Jordan, Justin Jordan, Daniel Jordan, and Alex Guimares; and countless others who loved her deeply.

Visitation services will be held at McCracken Funeral Home, located at 1500 Morris Ave, Union, NJ 07083, on February 2, 2026. The visitation will take place from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm and again from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

A private cremation will take place. May she Rest In Peace, and forever in the memory of all of those who loved her.