Kristin E. Smullen, 57, of Bennington, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of March 2, 2026, following a brief battle with a rare form of cancer. She was surrounded by the love of her family at The Jack Byrne Hospice Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire. Kristin was born in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, on September 13, 1968, the daughter of Kerry and Gail (Good) Smith.

Kristin spent her childhood in North Smithfield, Rhode Island, where she grew up on her family’s farm. During her youth, she was actively involved in 4-H, an experience that nurtured her lifelong love for animals and helped her form many treasured friendships that remained meaningful throughout her life. Later, she moved with her family to Greenfield, New Hampshire, where she attended ConVal High School and graduated with the Class of 1986.

In 1993, Kristin married the love of her life, Joseph Smullen. Soon after, they made their home in Bennington, New Hampshire, where together they built a life centered on family and raised their four children.

Kristin was known for her gentle nature, kind heart, and the remarkable way she made others feel welcomed, understood, and cared for. Her compassion naturally led her to work at Crotched Mountain Rehabilitation Center, where she found a true calling caring for individuals who needed it most. She spent many meaningful years there, forming friendships with colleagues and residents alike that endured long after her time there had ended. In the later years of her career, Kristin worked at Millipore in Jaffrey, New Hampshire, where she was deeply valued and appreciated by those who had the pleasure of working alongside her.

Music was a constant and cherished part of Kristin’s life. She began taking piano lessons at the age of seven, and her love for the instrument grew steadily throughout the years. An accomplished classical pianist, she possessed extraordinary talent yet carried it with quiet humility. She found joy in sharing her music, whether performing in concerts or simply playing at home for her family. Some of her most treasured moments were spent at the piano while her grandchildren played nearby—occasionally reaching up to add a few notes of their own.

Above all else, Kristin’s greatest happiness came from time spent with her family. They were the center of her world, and she took immense pride in the lives they were building. Those who knew her will remember a woman whose kindness left a lasting impression. With her warm smile, patient heart, and genuine compassion, she touched the lives of people from all walks of life simply by being herself.

In addition to her beloved husband, Joseph Smullen, of Bennington, Kristin is survived by her mother, Gail Smith, of Townshend, Vermont; her daughter, Elizabeth Dostaler and her husband Nicholas; her daughter Katherine Smullen; her son Daniel Smullen and his longtime girlfriend Reenie Kim; and her son Adam Smullen and his wife Bryanna Smullen. She also leaves behind six grandchildren whom she loved dearly and was so very proud of: Aiden, Carter, Isaak, Lucas, Liam, and Hadley.

Kristin was predeceased by her father, Kerry Smith; her father-in-law, James Smullen; and her granddaughter, Eliza Smullen.

A celebration of Kristin’s life will be announced at a later date.