Kira Ashleigh Lanza, 49, of Dover-Foxcroft, Maine, passed away on May 23, 2025. Born on June 22, 1975, she was the beloved first child of Marilyn Lewis Lanza and the late Ronald Michael Lanza of Windham, New Hampshire.

Kira grew up in Windham, where she nurtured her creativity and deep love for animals from a young age. She attended Pinkerton Academy in Derry, NH, and earned her high school diploma from Stoughton High School in Massachusetts. Those who knew Kira remember her for her quiet generosity, loyalty, sensitivity, and sassiness.

An innately gifted artist, Kira created stunning pencil sketches and watercolor paintings, despite having no formal training. She had a natural eye for fashion and beauty, always drawn to the details that made the world—and the people in it—feel more vibrant. Most recently, she found peace and joy in gardening, once again gravitating toward the simple, grounding beauty of nature.

Kira's affection for animals was a defining part of her life. As a child, she adored her pony, Mayberry, and looked forward to summer horse camp each year. As an adult, she doted on her beloved and mischievous dog, Rusty, and several lucky cats who shared her home. Her compassion extended even to the feral cats in her neighborhood, whom she cared for during the harsh Maine winters, leaving out food and warm places for them to rest.

A deeply sentimental and nostalgic soul, Kira led with her heart. She was the kind of person who never forgot a birthday or holiday, often sending handwritten cards to people who were important to her.

Kira was preceded in death by her father, Ronald Lanza. She is survived by her mother, Marilyn Lanza of Windham, NH, and her brother, Ian Lanza of Rochester, MN.

A small, quiet interment ceremony will take place on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. at The Cemetery on the Plains in Windham, New Hampshire. Arrangements are in the care of the Carrier Family Funeral Home, Windham, NH. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.carrierfuneralhome.com