Kathleen ""YaYa"" Kraft

Kathleen “YaYa” Kraft, age 86, of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, passed away peacefully at her home on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 10, 2026.

 

Kathleen was a devoted wife to her beloved husband, John Rex Kraft, who preceded her in death and a loving mother to her three sons, John Kirby Kraft, Francis Rex Kraft, and Craig Thomas Kraft, who also preceded her in death. She was also a cherished sister to James Knight, Mary Ellen Marren, and Ann Knight.

Known lovingly as “YaYa” to those closest to her, Kathleen’s greatest joy in life was her family. She leaves behind her grandsons, Ryan Thomas Kraft, Nicholas Ridgway Kraft, Shane Austin Kraft, Dalton Jack Kraft, and Josh McClanahan, who also preceded her in death. She was a proud great-grandmother to Harper Kathleen Kraft, Owen William Kraft, and Tatum Blu Kraft. Kathleen will also be deeply missed by her many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

 

Born on July 18, 1939, in Chicago, Illinois, Kathleen was the daughter of Thomas and Julia Knight. In 1968, she moved to Florida to begin a new chapter in North Palm Beach. She dedicated many years of her life managing The Flame Restaurant for 25 years before later overseeing the Larry & Kathleen Fischer Estate in Palm Beach for another 25 years until her retirement.

 

Kathleen found immense happiness in attending her grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s baseball, football, basketball, and soccer games. She especially treasured time spent cooking for family and friends, always bringing people together with her warmth, generosity, and love.

 

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 12:00 PM until 3:00 PM at Northwood Funeral Home & Crematory, 5608 Broadway, West Palm Beach, Florida.

 

Kathleen’s love, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family will be remembered always.