Because of this, her sudden death last week has left many shocked and saddened.
But at the same time, Rochester Mural Festival committee member Judy Anderson said this was a time to celebrate a wonderful person.
“We got to know Krissy as she competed in the past two Rochester Mural Festivals,” Mrs Anderson said.
“She was the type of person who could light up a room.”
The 62-year-old was described as a "brave and creative woman" as she painted, giving a part of herself to her art.
“She had a lot of ideas and she did some amazing things and although she did have a few health issues, she never let it get to her,” Mrs Anderson said.
“Both years she has created beautiful pieces, even if the second took a bit longer than expected.”
While completing her artwork at this year's festival, Ms Scherlies stepped back to admire her efforts, but unfortunately fell and broke her leg in the process.
This meant she was unable to finish her mural.
“She was devastated she couldn't finish her work,” Mrs Anderson said.
“But she was on a mission and swore she would come back and make sure she would finish.”
And that she did.
Once she was back up and running, Ms Scherlies braved the cold and windy weather to finish what she had started.
“She was so determined to get it done. No-one asked her to, considering everything going on, but she made sure she did it,” Mrs Anderson said.
She said Ms Scherlies had a sort of "hippie vibe", but this added to her great personality.
“She was always in bright clothes and had beautiful, long, silver hair, but she was always so lovely and we never had a problem with her,” Mrs Anderson said.
The festival committee has put one of her murals on display at Rochester Primary School.
It has not yet been decided where the second mural will be displayed.