Remembering Marissa
The America World family is deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of Marissa Catherine Gunnett (Baas), who passed away on August 23, 2026, at just 25 years old.
Marissa's story will always hold a special place in the history of America World. In 2003, at just two years old, Marissa was adopted from China by her mother, Sharri Baas, through America World.
It is one of the greatest privileges of our work to witness the beginning of stories like Marissa's — to see a child welcomed into a family and then, years later, to know that child has grown into a young woman who has loved, served, worked, worshiped, and made an impact on the lives of others.
While we grieve the loss of Marissa and hold her family and friends close in our prayers, we are also grateful for the opportunity to play a small part in her story.
Her life was a gift, and her legacy of love and service will not be forgotten.
Honor Her Memory
Marissa's family has chosen to honor her memory by inviting friends and loved ones to give to America World in lieu of flowers.
A gift in Marissa's memory honors the beginning of her own story and helps create hope for other children and families whose stories are still being written.
Your gift helps America World continue bringing children and families together and walking alongside them throughout their adoption journeys.
We invite you to celebrate Marissa's life by helping another child find the love, belonging, and hope that she experienced through her own adoption story.
A Life That Made a Difference
We mourn with Marissa's family and all who loved her, and we pray that God would surround them with His comfort and peace in the days ahead.
Though our hearts are heavy with the loss of such a young life, we give thanks for the 25 years God gave Marissa and for the many lives she touched along the way.
May her memory continue to inspire us to love deeply, serve faithfully, and hold tightly to the hope we have in Christ.
“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”
Psalm 34:18
