Marilyn Janet Kravig

Marilyn Kravig, of Sonoma, California, passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, February 6, 2026, at the age of 79. Our hearts are heavy as we say goodbye to a woman who was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by many.

Marilyn died with her beloved daughter, Juliana, by her side. She is survived by Juliana Fritz, Juliana’s fiancé A.J. Kirsch, and her brothers Loren Kravig (Laurie, Troy, Sarah) and Russ Kravig (Amy, Brandon), her sisters Deborah Padula (Dawn, Nick, Kevin) and Rommie Herndon (Trevor and Lynnsey). Born on September 14, 1946, in Los Angeles, Marilyn spent her early years in Columbus, Ohio. She graduated from Ohio University in 1968 with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Education.

A former flight attendant, Marilyn carried a lifelong curiosity and love of travel that allowed her to see the world firsthand. Her adventures took her many places, including thirteen cherished years on the Big Island of Hawaii—a place where her spirit felt especially at home. Still, she was a California girl at heart and ultimately returned to Northern California, settling in Sonoma in 2008.

Marilyn loved the world and paid close attention to it. She was deeply engaged with current affairs and found joy and solace in her garden. She also delighted in film (SV Film Festival), wine, art, good food, and—most of all—her lifelong friendships. Marilyn remembered everyone and had a rare gift for making people feel truly seen, becoming a quiet, steady presence in the fabric of the Sonoma community.

Known for her lively spirit and positive outlook, being in Marilyn’s company felt a bit like being with a celebrity—yet she had an extraordinary way of making you feel just as special in return. She was universally liked, respected, and warmly welcomed wherever she went. Marilyn supported causes she believed in, marched in protests, welcomed newcomers, and engaged in thoughtful, spirited dialogue. In 2025, she co-authored Europe 1971: A Travel Journal by Don Sanders and Marilyn Kravig, based on her journals and their youthful adventures together.

Marilyn was known for her warmth, intelligence, and unmistakable style. She showed up fully for her friends and greeted others with genuine interest and care. Though her life included real challenges, she met them with resilience, hope, and grace. That was her nature. Marilyn was generous without ever seeking recognition. Nothing in her life mattered more than being a mother. Her love was steady, fierce, and unconditional, and in the end, it was Juliana’s face that held her focus.

Even in her final days, Marilyn greeted those she loved with her familiar, generous smile. She leaves behind a wide circle of friends who will carry her spirit forward and feel her absence deeply. Her quiet challenge to us all is to love one another deeply and make a meaningful difference wherever we can.

A Celebration of Life will take place later in the year in September. Messages can be left at laffertyandsmith.com under the 'Obituaries' tab.

In lieu of flowers, please support those near and dear to Marilyn and keep her legacy alive: Vintage House, Sonoma Museum of Art, KQED Public Television, and Habitat for Humanity.

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