Kristi Genara Smith

Kristi Genara (Osborne) Smith, Age 50

Kristi Genara (Osborne) Smith, age 50, beloved wife, mother, daughter, and "Hunny," passed away in Houston, Texas, on July 16, 2025, leaving a void her family cannot fill. Her presence was a source of warmth, humor, and steady love-one that cannot be replaced and will never be forgotten.

Kristi was born in Cherry Point, North Carolina, to Wilbur "Buddy" and Karla (Marsh) Osborne. As the daughter of a United States Marine, she proudly grew up as a Marine Corps "brat," attending elementary and middle schools across the country. Though her childhood was marked by movement, she brought a sense of consistency and joy wherever she went-through her infectious laugh, big heart, and welcoming spirit. Her family eventually settled in Deer Park, Texas, where she graduated from Deer Park High School in 1993.

Kristi's Native American heritage was very near and dear to her heart. A proud member of the Potawatomi Nation, she fully embraced her ancestry, traditions, and the cultural legacy passed down through generations. Rooted in her heritage, she possessed a worldview characterized by humility, strength, and a profound respect for her family, history, and community.

A passionate historian and lifelong learner, Kristi earned her bachelor's degree in U.S. History from the University of Houston – Clear Lake. She later completed two master's degrees at American Military University, one in U.S. History and the other in Military History. Her deep knowledge and enthusiasm were contagious, especially to her students, who were lucky to learn from a teacher who brought education to life with excitement and insight.

In October 2001, Kristi met Michael Smith, an active-duty member of the United States Coast Guard. Their connection was immediate. Just three weeks later, they were married-a decision that began nearly 24 years of adventure, laughter, resilience, and unwavering love. Together, they built a home that radiated kindness, honesty, and joy.

Kristi was a fiercely proud mother to her two children, Kai Webb (28) and McKenna Smith (19). Her love for them was limitless. She celebrated every accomplishment and supported them through every challenge. She never missed a chance to share their milestones with pride, always reminding them-and the world-how much they meant to her.

Kristi's influence as an educator extended far beyond the classroom. Kristi inspired students not just to understand the past, but to think critically, ask questions, and find the human stories that bring history into the present. Her legacy lives on in the lives of those she taught and mentored.

Kristi was preceded in death by her father, Wilbur "Buddy" Osborne; her father-in-law, Bill Smith; her maternal grandparents, Walter and Edna "Jean" Marsh; and her paternal grandmother, Charlotte "Sally" Pockrus.

Kristi is survived by her loving husband, Michael Smith; her children, Kai Webb (Natascha) and McKenna Smith; her mother, Karla (Marsh) Osborne; her brother, Craig Osborne; and the newest member of the family, her cherished grandson, Noah Maximus Webb. She also leaves behind countless extended family members, friends, students, and colleagues whose lives were touched by her strength, generosity, and wit.

A private ceremony will be held at the Houston VA Cemetery, where Kristi will be laid to rest with full military honors conducted by the United States Marine Corps Color Guard, near her father and father-in-law.

A memorial service to celebrate Kristi's life will be held at a future date. All who knew and loved her are welcome to attend and celebrate the extraordinary woman she was.

Kristi gave everything to the people and causes she cared about. Her love was a force. Her life was a gift. Her absence is deeply felt-and her memory will be cherished in our hearts, always.