Ilana Karina Crisp, a radiant light whose smile could brighten any room passed away on January 9, 2025 at 34 years old. Born on October 25, 1990, Ilana, a beloved daughter of David Crisp Jr. and Jeannine A. Laing, brought joy to the world with her spirit. Ilana was remarkable in her ability to communicate, connect, love and inspire others in spite of her autism diagnosis. Ilana navigated the world overcoming challenges with the grace and resilience of a true champion. Her journey was marked by small, yet monumental victories, a knowing glance, a gentle touch, a familiar gesture, a facial expression that communicated her deepest feelings. These triumphs, hard-won and deeply cherished, were a testament to her strength and the unwavering love of her family.

Ilana was determined to make each day hers and find joy in the things that she loved. Ilana began each day with a plan, her plan. She chose what she did, where she wanted to go and how she wanted to spend her time. While she chose the things that were meaningful to her, she always found ways to include others in her journey. Whether it be time with her family or family friends, you knew that attention from her was meaningful and it was her choice to share with you.

Ilana loved the water and her trips to the beach, ponds, and fountains. She loved her daily walks and shopping trips where she met so many of the people who became Ilana's friends. Ilana loved dogs and made so many pet friends who were always happy to greet her.

Ilana faced numerous challenges through her much too brief life and she endured, overcame, loved, laughed, helped, cared and gave so much to so many. Ilana's challenges were our challenges and taught us to be stronger, kinder and to embrace uncertainty and difference. Ilana will be in our hearts forever.

Ilana truly lived her best life within a family that was specially made for her. Ilana will be missed by her parents, David and Jeannine, sister Jaeda, her grandmothers, Cynthia Rose Laing and Theresa Duboyd, aunties, Deilia, Mary Ann, Maritza, Maria and Andrea, uncles, Noel, Rico, John, Tony and Mark, a host of cousins and loved ones.