Sarah Smith-Rieder, 47, of Barre, Vermont, died at UVMC in Burlington on March 16, 2026, surrounded by her family. Born on November 21, 1978, in Berlin, Vermont to Barbara (Slayton) and Michael Smith. She graduated from U-32 Jr/Sr High School in 1996.

Sarah was known as a caretaker and worked as a Licensed Nursing Assistant at Woodridge Nursing Home for 22 years, until 2018, when she became medically unable to carry out her duties. She loved her work family and her patients and felt honored that she could assist others when they could no longer do for themselves.

Sarah enjoyed the beach, the Maine ocean waters, camping, crafting, scary movies, and especially her fur babies, Adele and Maddie. Family was always special to Sarah and she enjoyed her close relationships with her grandparents, siblings, aunts and uncles.

Besides her parents, Sarah is survived by her husband, Michael Rieder; sons Anthony (Sylvia) East Middlebury, Jonathan, Barre, and Maliki(fiancée Alex), Barre. Sisters Lisa Badore, Fairfax, and Tracy (Bruce) Payea, Milton; grandparents Martha and Brad Tanner, FL; and her in-laws, James and Christine Rieder, WI, and several aunts, uncles, and cousins. She is predeceased by her grandparents Richard Slayton, Jean Smith, Donald Smith, and great-grandparents Freda Staples, Marshall Staples, and Vivian Smith.

A celebration of Sarah's life will be held on April 12th, 2026, at 1:00 PM at the VFW post 792 on Pioneer Street, Montpelier, with a luncheon to follow.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution in her name can be made to the Vermont Humane Society, 1589 Route 14S, East Montpelier, VT 05651.

She will be deeply missed and forever remember