Larissa Lalicata

Larissa Jean Lalicata, age 43, passed away on May 4, 2025, in Harris, New York. Born on July 19, 1981, in North Bergen, New Jersey, Larissa brought light, creativity, and deep sensitivity into the lives of all who knew and loved her.

A gifted artist, Larissa expressed herself through painting and drawing, often drawing inspiration from both the natural world and the mystical, unseen beauty that surrounds it. Her work reflected her reverence for the earth and her unique way of seeing wonder in the everyday.

Larissa was also a talented cosmetologist who took great joy in helping others feel beautiful and confident. She earned her cosmetology license after years of learning the craft, much of it spent observing her talented mother at work behind the salon chair. Whether applying color to a canvas or someone’s hair, she poured the same care, creativity, and love into her work. She believed beauty came from within and had a remarkable gift for helping others see it in themselves.

With a deeply compassionate heart, Larissa also worked with individuals with disabilities at the Center for Discovery in Sullivan County, NY. Through this work, she touched many lives, offering the same kindness and acceptance that defined her personal life. Her efforts stood as a testament to her belief in the dignity and worth of every person.

Larissa loved spending time with her three children and created countless beautiful memories with them. She took them on nature walks, sharing her love for the outdoors and teaching them to see the magic in the world around them. She delighted in doing her daughters’ hair and nails, taking them shopping, and surprising them and their brother with thoughtful, meaningful gifts—always making them feel special, seen, and loved. She inspired her daughter Lila to tap into her own creativity through art and drawing, passing on a piece of her own spirit and talent.

An old soul with a youthful spirit, Larissa was deeply intuitive and endlessly accepting. She had a great sense of humor and a contagious laugh. She loved to be goofy—even at her own expense—and had an incredible ability to make people feel at ease. Her warmth and nonjudgmental nature drew people to her, and she created a space where others felt safe to be exactly who they were.

A true child of nature, Larissa found peace in the outdoors and beauty in the earth. She had a heart for all living things and was known for her compassion toward animals, often taking in strays and offering them a home. Her kindness extended quietly but powerfully into every corner of her life.

Larissa’s life was a testament to the importance of compassion, understanding, and hope in the face of challenges. While she faced personal struggles, she remained determined to live a life of love and connection. In honoring her memory, we are reminded of the critical need for empathy and support for those battling addiction, and the power of compassion in helping others heal.

Larissa is survived by her mother and stepfather, Linda and William Sharples; her father, Joseph Lalicata; her brothers, Joseph Lalicata and Matthew Sharples; her sister, Ashley Sharples, and brother-in-law, Shane Harris; her beloved children, Lila Groce, Chaise Groce, and Violet Long; and her cherished nephews, Archie and Noah Harris. She also leaves behind her loving partner, Usher Mermelstein.

Larissa will be remembered for her artistic spirit, her soulful presence, her vibrant sense of humor, and the deep love she had for her family, friends, the natural world, and every creature she met.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at 1:00 PM at All Saints' Memorial Church, located at 202 Navesink Avenue, Atlantic Highlands, NJ 07716. All are welcome to attend and celebrate her life.

The family requests that donations be made in Larissa’s name to Hazlet’s Hope Network, an organization dedicated to providing resources, support, and outreach to those struggling with addiction. https://hazletshopenetwork.flipcause.com/hosted_widget/hostedWidgetHome/NjQ0OTY=

In honoring Larissa’s memory, may we each take time to notice the beauty around us—and to cherish it, as she so often did, with her brush, her laughter, and her heart.