Phyllis Respess Kraatz

Phyllis Respess Kraatz, 90, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, May 13, 2026. A proud graduate of Western High School in Baltimore, Maryland, Phyllis went on to dedicate many years of service to her community, retiring as a Deputy Clerk for the U.S. Bankruptcy District Court in Norfolk, Virginia. Phyllis was a deeply devoted member of Cradock Baptist Church, where her faith and servant's heart shone brightly. Over the years, she served her church community in numerous capacities, including working as the Financial Secretary, serving on both the Financial and Floral committees, and serving as a Deacon. Her incredible creative talent even took her to California, where she participated in helping create floats for the famous Rose Bowl Parade. Closer to home, Phyllis was a proud member of the Sterling Point Garden Club, where she fully indulged her love for gardening and flower arranging. She also found great joy in the arts and culture, frequently visiting the Chrysler Museum. Always active and social, she loved learning to play cards and pool with the many friends she made at her residence at Harmony House. Phyllis always had a deep connection to the coast; she was truly "called to the water" and held a lifelong love for lighthouses. Some of her most cherished moments were spent on Gwynn’s Island, surrounded by the family she adored. She took immense pride in attending her great-grandchildren's games and regattas, always remaining their biggest cheerleader. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 54 years, Bernie, and leaves behind many lifelong friends. Phyllis leaves a legacy of deep love and family. She is survived by her two children, Marcia Kraatz Kittrell, and Oscar Brian Kraatz and his wife, Melissa; her granddaughter, Sherri Kittrell Stein and her husband, Adam; as well as two step-grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, all of whom loved her dearly. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at Cradock Baptist Church. Following the service, family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Phyllis's life at Harmony Harborview from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to Cradock Baptist Church, 96 Afton Pkwy, Portsmouth, VA 23702, or to the charity of your choice