Nicole “Nikki” E. Karastury, age 35, of Waverly Hall, GA, passed on August 17, 2026. She was born December 23, 1990, in Columbus, Georgia; the daughter of the late Paul Karastury Jr. and Lisa Johnson Harrell.
Nikki attended Harris County High School and carried a steady sense of purpose and care for others throughout her life.
In her work as a Veterinary Assistant, Nikki brought both skill and tenderness-meeting each animal with patience, and each person with consideration. Her compassion was not confined to the workplace; She had a big heart and wanted to help every person and animal she encountered. She was also an advocate for animals, especially senior animals, offering her voice and her heart to those most in need of comfort, protection, and a chance at a second life. Which Nikki demonstrated beautifully by adopting Chester and establishing “Chester’s Legacy” on Facebook.
Above all, Nikki was a devoted mother to three amazing children, she loved her family deeply. Her devotion was evident in the quiet constancy of her presence and the sincere attention she gave to those she cherished. This included her large circle of friends that meant the world to her.
Nikki found joy in nature and lived with the openness of a free spirit—drawn to the simple beauty of the outdoors and the promise of new discoveries. An avid collector with an eye for vintage items and thrifting, she delighted in finding meaning and charm in what others might overlook, approaching life with a gentle sense of adventure, much like her father.
Nikki is preceded in death by; her father, Frank Paul Karastury Jr., her grandmothers, Brenda Carol Karastury and Mindie Elizabeth Johnson.
Survivors include; her three children, daughter Paisley Elliott, two sons, Jaxxon Thorne, Atlas Thorne; mother and stepfather, Lisa (Mike) Harrell; sister, Mindy (Jason Blackmon) Karastury; stepmother, Paige Karastury; stepbrother, Hunter Adams; grandfathers, Frank P. Karastury, Sr., Billy Johnson, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
A visitation will be held at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, GA 31907, on August 29, 2026, from 10:00 am to 10:50 am; the Funeral Service will follow at 11:00 am.
