Ina Fran Kaplan

Ina Fran Kaplan passed away on March 5, 2026, in Atlanta, Georgia. Her love of life, passion for purpose, and infectious laughter left the world a brighter and warmer place.

Born on January 16, 1950, to Zena and Harry Kaplan in Savannah, Georgia, Ina grew up with her brother Steven surrounded by a large and loving family of aunts, uncles, and cousins. She cherished time spent with Steven and his wife Shelley and their son David, as well as with her sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Marsha and Perry Thompson.

Ina loved people and was happiest when surrounded by family and friends. She stayed closely connected with her Atlanta cousins, gathering regularly for Sunday lunches filled with stories from the past and new memories that inevitably led to shared laughter. This cousin group remained a joyful, rolling celebration no matter where they met.

After training as an X-ray technician, Ina moved to Atlanta and began her career working with orthopedic surgeon Dr. Will Brown. In his small practice, she served not only as the entire X-ray department but also as a trusted assistant and confidant. Following Dr. Brown’s retirement, she embarked on a second career in antiques and collectibles, where she discovered a passion for antiquing, learning about different cultures and art, and above all, meeting fascinating people.

After living in Atlanta for five years, Ina met Carolyn, beginning a 51-year relationship of deep love and devotion. They married on May 23, 2014. Together they shared a life rich in music, sports—especially Braves games—travel, grilling meals, and hosting gatherings both large and small, always celebrating the simple joys of living. Known as a mischievous prankster, Ina delighted in playing jokes on her loved ones, always followed by her unmistakable, contagious laughter.

Ina spent many happy days at Tybee Island, Georgia, enjoying the water, walking the beaches, watching birds and dolphins, and hosting large get-togethers filled with good food, music, and wonderful company.

She possessed a huge heart and gave generously to charities, particularly those supporting children and abused women. Ina also provided meals for people living on the streets. Her affection extended warmly to her beloved dogs and those of her friends; dogs always seemed to recognize her kind spirit and sought her out.

Ina was predeceased by her parents, Zena and Harry Kaplan; her aunts and uncles Phyllis and Irvin Levin, Audrey and Max Levin, Joan and Saul Vitner, Julius “Boo” Hornstein, and Phillip Kaplan; and her cousin Barry Levin.

She is survived by her wife, Carolyn Kaplan; her brother and sister-in-law, Steven and Shelley Kaplan; her sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Marsha and Perry Thompson; her aunts Iris Hornstein and Sally Kaplan; and more than forty cousins and their children.

Ina’s greatest joy was her family and friends. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.