Kristy Jeanne Rosenberg
Dec 22, 1956 -
May 8, 2026
Kristy passed away on May 8, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska, after spending the past year confronting pancreatic cancer with courage and grace.
The fifth of seven children, she was born on Dec. 22,1956, in Shreveport, La., to Howard and Mary Ruth (Boyd) Bell. She attended Fair Park HS in Shreveport before her family moved to California, graduating from Canoga Park HS in 1974. Kristy earned her bachelor's degree in education from Louisiana State University in 1980. Moving to Anchorage in 1981, she taught special needs children at the Rigel School, and kindergarten at Williwaw and Inlet View Elementary Schools until retiring in 2010. A natural teacher, she created a nurturing environment that encouraged imagination and curiosity.
Her parents instilled an appreciation and love for music at an early age that brought her lifelong joy and comfort. She sang in choirs, played piano, guitar and loved live music. "Happiness is Everywhere – Finding the Hidden Joys in Life;" that she titled a junior high drawing, was part of daily life.
Kristy met the love of her life, Dan Rosenberg, through cross-country skiing aided by a mutual love for golden retrievers. On Aug. 31, 1997, they married aboard the M/V Discovery in Prince William Sound.
Simple pleasures filled her life once she had her morning coffee. Beachcombing, hiking, trail running, gardening, skiing, exploring tidepools, berry picking, quilting and observing the wonders of nature were some. There were always more books to read, music to enjoy and places to explore. Through it all she was always there to support her family, friends and many activities within the broader community.
Though motherhood for Kristy arrived late, she cherished and embraced it in every way. Her patience, empathy and compassion along with her collection of children's books and teaching experience all coalesced. She adored Rayelin and supported her many endeavors. She was proud of her daughter's equestrian skills and for the beautiful, kind young woman she is.
Kristy was preceded in death by her parents, Howard and Mary Ruth (Boyd) Bell. She is survived by husband, Dan; daughter, Rayelin (Rachel) Rosenberg; brothers, Howard Bell (Laurie), Mark Bell (Karen), Tim Bell (Maggie) and David Bell (Dana); sisters, Priscilla Gribble (Hank) and Shannon Carter; and many nieces and nephews.
Please consider a donation to a group that provides support to animal welfare, the less fortunate or seeks a cure for cancer. The Flying Dutchman Bakery will accept contributions in her memory for animal welfare and those in need.
A memorial will be held on Aug. 4, 2026, at 5:30 p.m., at Congregation Beth Shalom, 7525 E. Northern Lights Boulevard in Anchorage. All those whose lives she touched are invited to attend.
