Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

Annapolis Elks Lodge

Juliette Gonda Kragh, cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at the age of 87 on Tuesday, August 20th in Edgewater, MD. Her love and presence left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Born on June 16, 1937 in Paris, France, she spent her early childhood in Geneva, Switzerland. Juliette immigrated to the United States with her family at the age of 13 and lived in New York City before moving to Washington DC. Juliette met her loving husband, Clarence, in 1957 after a friend set them up on a blind date. Juliette and Clarance married on February 21, 1959 and celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary this past February.

Juliette graduated from Eastern High School (Washington DC) in 1954 and the District of Columbia Teachers College in 1959. She then earned a Masters degree in History from the University of Maryland in 1973. Juliette dedicated her entire professional life to education, where she taught History, English, and French to middle and high school students. She retired as a high school history teacher after 30 years and her passion for knowledge remained a cornerstone of who she was to her community – especially when it came to History and Current Events.

Juliette embraced all cultures and traveled around the world, sharing her experiences through her pictures and stories. One of her favorite destinations was Switzerland, where she returned frequently to spend time with lifelong friends. Closer to home, Juliette loved trips to Myrtle Beach where she could spend the week with family, reading, laughing and floating in the ocean.

Juliette was an avid supporter of the arts – particularly music, drawing, dance, and cooking. In her retirement, she took up piano lessons and would spend time painting and drawing at the local Senior Center. Many of her beautiful drawings and paintings can be found in the houses of loved ones. Juliette loved attending local dances with her husband and friends. She also loved cooking for her family and hosting family gatherings.

She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Clarence; her daughters Kathryn, Susan (Bill); her grandchildren Kelly (Chris), Greg, Matthew (Ali), Andrew (Lizzie), Nathan (Autumn), her great-grandson Finn, and her brother Joe (Chris).

A celebration of life will be held on Monday, September 2nd, 2024, at Noon at the Elk’s Club, Edgewater, MD, where friends and family will gather to celebrate her remarkable life and legacy. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hospice of the Chesapeake or St. Jude’s Hospital.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to all who have offered support and condolences during this time. Juliette’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her

Juliette G. Kragh

Juliette G. Kragh

Juliette Kragh Services

Memorial Service