Dennis Edward Kitchens, age 70, of Fleming Island, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2024, with his family by his side.

Dennis was born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, on June 23, 1954. His early jobs included running a local newspaper route and servicing the concession stand at the University of Alabama college football games. Upon graduating high school at the age of 16, he joined the United States Air Force in Jacksonville, Florida and was later stationed in Michigan and Colorado. During his time of service, Dennis was awarded the Commendation Medal for providing expert first aid to an injured airman.

Throughout his life, Dennis thrived with change. After dedicating over 30 years to working in construction, Dennis founded and grew a credit card processing company and owned a restaurant, all while continuing to befriend and help those he worked with along the way. Most recently and until just a few weeks before passing, Dennis worked as a home inspector.

Dennis met his soulmate, Linda, on a blind date coordinated by his best friend Dan and Linda’s best friend Brenda in May 1990. After an eleven-month courtship, Dennis and Linda eloped in Lake Tahoe, with Dennis’ son Kace by their side.

As a faithful Christian, Dennis lived a life filled with tremendous passion and service towards others, as exemplified through his teaching of the Overcoming Emotional Pain and Grief Counseling classes at Lakeside Church of Christ. He also enjoyed playing chess, cooking, dating his wife, spending time with his grandchildren, fishing, playing golf, and watching football (Roll Tide!).

Dennis is survived by his son Phillip (Traci), daughter Kelsey, sons Ean and Sam, grandchildren Emilia, Henry and Rosalie, sister Shelby, brother Bob, and sister Cheryl (Mike). He was preceded in death by his father Ed, mother Bettye June, stepmother Betty Sue, son Kace, and sister Carissa.

Dennis loved his fellow man and connected with people of all walks of life. He will be remembered for his unconditional kindness, boundless love, infectious smile, and dedication to service.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Dennis’ memory may donate to the Wounded Warrior Project at the following URL: support.woundedwarriorproject.org.