Kristie M (Madonna) Sirmalis

Kristie M. Sirmalis, 49, a cherished and devoted wife, daughter, mother, daughter-in-law, sister-in-law and friend passed away peacefully on Friday, February 7, 2025 at Hope Health Hospice Center in Providence. Born on January 30, 1976, in Fall River, Massachusetts and was a resident of Barrington, RI for the past 17 years.

Kristie was a kind, loving women with many interests and a generous heart, but her dedication was to her children. She was a devoted, adoring mother, whose selflessness instilled values that will last a lifetime. As the proud mother of twins, Hannah and Ben (affectionately known as Peanut and Benny) and loving stepmother of Drew, she wholeheartedly immersed herself in their lives and passions. Whether it was hockey, equestrian, soccer, skiing, hiking, camping, art, paddleboarding, or travel, Kristie embraced every adventure alongside them. She had an ultimate love for music, nature and the outdoors, finding joy in every moment spent at her beloved family beach house. Kristie also had a deep love for her dogs, Beckett and Bean, and generously gave her time to the Potter League, as well as the many sports and activities her children were involved in.

Kristie was the beloved wife of Tod Sirmalis. In her own words she expressed her thoughts as follows: My wonderful husband, Tod. You are my soulmate, best friend and the most amazing husband and father I could have ever asked for in life. You became a full-time caretaker and always thought I had it worse when it was clear it was harder on you than me. You never wavered and ……From the day we met, we lived a life full of adventure and fun and put all our efforts into our children. We were so very close to living our retirement dream in Sarasota. Continue the dream and go live your life, you deserve it!

She was the proud daughter of Dale Madonna, who she cared for deeply. During her final moments she wrote to her family: My amazing father, thank you for all you have done for me my entire life. You are the epitome of what a parent should be and I’m blessed to have our relationship throughout my life. To my Aunt Dolly (Raposa), you are more than an aunt to me. I’m not sure I could ever verbalize the importance of our relationship. It’s precious to me and thank you for your support, loyalty and love. My beautiful cousin Heidi (Miles), you are a reflection of your mom and I cherish having you in my life. Unfortunately, Kristie’s health slipped away so quickly that she was unable to write tributes to the two that she loved and cherished the most, Hannah and Ben. She did however express repeatedly to those close to her, wishes that would ensure she had a presence in their most precious moments of life. Much of her time and energy was given to this endeavor.

Kristie had many lifelong, loving friends who she treasured immensely.  Her kindness, thoughtfulness, and dry sense of humor made her a joy to be around. Kristie had an infectious giggle that could light up a room and a magnetic personality that drew people in. She also had a unique sense of style, always rocking a baseball cap with effortless grace.

Beyond her family, Kristie was a dedicated professional, working tirelessly as a Fractional Controller for her clients at Vitalo Gagnon, Ltd. She was hardworking, committed, and highly respected in her field.

Kristie’s strength and resilience were unparalleled, especially throughout her courageous battle with cancer. She faced every challenge with selflessness and unwavering grace, often downplaying her struggle with words like, "It's okay," and "Someone has to get it – I don’t wish it on anyone.” When Tod would cry throughout her many struggles, she would say with a smile, "Don’t be a crybaby, Tod." Her bravery and attitude were truly inspiring.

When Kristie was well enough, she began to write down some of her thoughts which we would like to share:

A life well lived! This is how I feel about my life. It may not have been as long as I hoped or expected, but I can honestly say I was very happy and blessed.

On my birthday I always joked with my husband that I had so many summers left using the average age of death of 76. This year I told him I have 28 summers. Little did I know I had 1 summer. Don’t go through life assuming you will live to be 76 and have years to do everything you want in life. Live like you have one summer.

Thank you to my amazing medical team. Your expertise and kindness made all the difference. Most importantly, thank you for understanding when I had enough. After many failed treatments, I let you know I wanted to stop and rather than trying to convince me to try another treatment, you looked at me and said you understood. It was a sense of validation that my quality of life mattered and you understood I was no longer living my life.

Kristie quoted Daniella Thackray as a source of inspiration: “I really, really do hope that in the years to come more research is done about this horrid cruel disease so that more lives can be saved. So, with that being said, although we can’t control what happens to us, we can control how we react. I chose not to mourn the life I was losing despite being so devastated, but to instead enjoy every moment I had left.  So, thank you everyone for making my life so magical. Remember what I said about enjoying the little things. If ever there is a tomorrow when we’re not together, there is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we’re apart… I’ll always be with you,” Thackray wrote, quoting Winnie the Pooh.

Kristie leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and strength, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Services are private.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Brown University Health Cancer Institute at RI Hospital, c/o Dr. Don Dizon (Clear Cell Research) or Lighthouse Animal Shelter, to support the great organization that brought us our fabulous Bean!

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