Sonia Helena Kragh passed away peacefully on Aug. 10, 2026, at the age of 82, at her daughter’s home in Syracuse, N.Y.
She was born on Jan. 23, 1944, to Czechoslovak diplomat Dr. Antonin, and Sonia, Obrdlik. She spent her early years in Czechoslovakia before her family relocated to New York in 1947 for her father’s role at the United Nations.
Sonia grew up in Rye, graduating from high school with honors in 1961. She spent many cherished summers at her family’s farm in Buell’s Gore, Vt.
She married her high school sweetheart, Peter Kragh, in 1961. Together they had twin daughters, Sonia Yvonne and Evalyn.
Sonia earned her degree in high school education from Fairleigh Dickinson University in 1978, while raising her children, later earning a master’s degree in Spanish literature from the University of Kentucky. She taught English and Spanish in McCreary County, Ky., and at Lafayette High School in Lexington, Ky., directing foreign exchange programs and leading student trips to Spain.
She spent over 40 years in Kentucky, where she volunteered for the Lexington Humane Society, served as an interpreter for the 2010 World Equestrian Games, enjoyed playing golf, cheered for the U.K. Wildcats basketball team, and enjoyed traveling, including spending winters in Costa Rica.
She is survived by her husband, Peter Kragh (married 65 years); daughters Sonia (Sri) and Evalyn (Lynn); sisters Danila and Helen (Hal); five grandchildren: Hannah, Mary, Peter, Sonia Shalini, and Lexie; two great-granddaughters: Gabriella Sonia and Grace; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Active Community Member Passes Away
October 9, 2026
