A Life Full of Curiosity: Fran Yost’s Journey Through Art, Athletics, and Now… Chess 

At Traditions of North Bend, inspiration often shows up in unexpected ways. Sometimes it arrives in the form of one book, one chessboard, and one enthusiastic woman—and that woman is Fran Yost. 

Fran brings life’s zeal to everything she does, though you might not know it due to her humble nature. Before hearing about her journey into learning chess, there are other passions to unpack.   

 A Lifetime of Artistry 

A small black album holds photographs of her artwork – crossing the spectrum from 2D to 3D.  Flipping through the pages, a visitor will see watercolors, sculptures, paper crafts, and etchings.  One watercolor immortalizes the log cabin she and her siblings were born in.  Another includes a pensive man on a dock, which she shared was originally a photograph that a friend had asked her to transform into a painting.  And a tip for sculptors… try alabaster stone from a shop near Dayton!  

 A Competitive Spirit That Never Faded 

Fran’s artistic passion is matched by her love of sports. A Bengals wreath hangs proudly on her door, and she’s quick to mention Cincinnati Reds rookie Sal Stewart. But Fran isn’t just a fan; she’s an athlete. 

Fran earned a place in Taylor High School’s Hall of Fame in Cleves for Track & Field (discus, shot put, 60‑yard hurdles, and the 880‑yard relay) and for Softball. She also received the Baby Ruth Foundation Sportsmanship Award Medal. 

Her competitive drive didn’t stop there. As a senior athlete, Fran qualified for the National Senior Olympics in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, in 2001, a testament to her lifelong dedication to staying active. 

 Learning Chess—70 Years Later 

With so many interests, Fran simply never found time to learn chess. She bought a book—E.S. Lowe’s Chess in 30 Minutes—back in 1955, even made the inlays for her own chess board, and picked up antique chess pieces decades ago. But she didn’t actually learn to play until recently. 

Using that same book, she began teaching herself, replaying games on the board she crafted long ago. When Executive Director Jamie Nell heard Fran was looking for an opponent at her level, the two began playing regularly. 

Their styles couldn’t be more different; Fran is intentional and thoughtful, thinking through future possibilities. Jamie plays fast, is not afraid to move her queen boldly, and may be checking her email and answering calls. They are fairly matched, and that’s what is important, shared Fran.  

Wrap Up 

Fran’s abundant curiosity has led her to a variety of interests over the past 90 years – and age is no reason to stop.  She still has a goal to hit over 3,000 steps a day and try all the activities offered each day!  She shared, “I will have pain no matter what – might as well have it out there in the community then alone in my room.”  She honestly shares chess is a difficult, strategic game – but she is happy to teach anyone.  

From art to athletics to finally mastering chess, Fran Yost is a reminder that curiosity doesn’t fade with age. It grows, evolves, and leads us into new adventures—no matter when we start. 

Fran is just one of the interesting people you’ll meet in our vibrant community. Schedule a tour today!