Emily Buring Accident Sisters Oregon Death Obituary: Smith Rock Tattoo Co. Owner Remembered at 25
Emily Buring’s life was shaped by the things she loved most — horses, Western culture, art and the people who became part of her journey. At just 25, the Central Oregon tattoo artist and horsewoman leaves behind a community struggling to understand a loss that came far too soon.
Buring, the owner of Smith Rock Tattoo Co. in Terrebonne, died days after a horseback-riding accident, according to current local reports. Friends and community members have remembered her for her kindness and the impression she made on those around her.
Buring grew up in Sisters and was immersed in the horse industry and ranching community from an early age. That background became an important influence on her artistic identity. She developed a particular passion for Western and horse-related tattoo designs, bringing the world she knew into her work.
She studied at Monolith Tattoo Academy in Bend under tattoo artist Andy Beswick and graduated in 2022. She later built her own tattoo business, first working under the Buckaroo Tattoo name before opening Smith Rock Tattoo Co. in Terrebonne. The studio reflected both her artistic talent and her connection to the Western lifestyle.
People who knew Emily have described her as positive, supportive and kind. A friend remembering her said Emily had tattooed her several times, recalling the kindness she showed and the memories they shared.
Details about her wider family, funeral arrangements and the full circumstances surrounding her death have not been publicly confirmed.
At 25, Emily Buring still had so much ahead of her. Her art, love of horses and the memories she gave those around her will remain part of the community she called home.
