Kristi Lynn Root

Kristi Lynn Root passed away on August 27, 2023, in Tulsa, Oklahoma at the age of 59.  She was born on December 24, 1963, in Joplin, Missouri to her parents Donald and Velma (Moser) Root.

From an early age, Kristi showed a passion for learning and helping others.  After graduating from Parkwood High School in Joplin in 1982, she pursued her education at Missouri Southern State College. Although her time there was brief, Kristi left and began her career at St. John Hospital in Joplin as a lab technician.  Her commitment and hard work quickly propelled her into the field of histology and medical transcription. In 1996, she relocated to Claremore, Oklahoma and began working for St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa. There again she began working in histology and medical transcription. It was while working at St. Francis that she would meet her lifelong companion, Mike Henderson. Kristi dedicated over two decades of her life to serving others in the medical field before retiring in 2017. 

Kristi had numerous interests that enriched her life. She possessed an infectious personality and a great sense of humor that could light up any room. Her unmistakable laugh brought joy to all those around her. Kristi loved watching the Food Network and testing her knowledge while watching Jeopardy. 

She is survived by her loving daughter Autumn Armstrong and husband Alan; partner Mike Henderson, sister Donna Fortner and fiancé David Harney, sister Jill Childs, niece Sara Bybee, and nephews Austin Bybee and Adam Gillespie.  She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers Rodney Gillespie and David Gillespie.  

Kristi’s memory will live on forever in the hearts of all those who had the privilege of knowing her.  She was a compassionate friend, a dedicated professional, and a source of inspiration for those around her. Her legacy is one of kindness, laughter, and unwavering love for her family.