James Robert Kitchens, age 81, of Vernon, AL passed away Thursday, November 19, 2020 at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Columbus, MS.  Funeral services will be held on Sunday, December 6, 2020 at 2:00pm at Vernon First Baptist Church followed by immediate family only graveside services and burial in the Vernon City Cemetery.  No public visitation will be held. Bro. Brandon Phillips to officiate.

James was born on September 8, 1939 in Sulligent, AL to the late H.W. Kitchens and Raye Crawford.  After graduating from Lamar County High in Vernon, AL, James Robert married Glenda Knight of Detroit, AL.  He started selling automobiles when he was 17 years old.  His love and passion for selling and trading cars and trucks resulted in ownership of car lots and businesses throughout Northwest Alabama and Northeast Mississippi.  He took much pride in his trade, making his customers, many repeat ones, happy and satisfied.

He was a life-long member of Vernon First Baptist Church where he served as a deacon and Sunday School secretary.  He also could be known as the "gum man" at church where children of all ages knew him and knew where to find him for a piece of gum before worship service.

Above everything, James Robert took pride in his family and loved them beyond measure.  He loved spending countless meals, holidays, and family vacations with all of them.  His face would beam with light when one of his grand or great grands entered the room.  He loved his wife Glenda and certainly enjoyed every meal she would prepare for him, along with all the extra attention she spoiled him with.  They were inseparable until their last few days here on earth.

Survived By:

Daughters: Marquetta Glasgow (Phillip), Vernon, AL

Kimberly Holt (Robert), Sterrett, AL

Kelly Edwards (Jonathan), Vernon, AL

Brother: John Paul Kitchens (Barbara), Vernon, AL

Sister: Kathy Kitchens, Vernon, AL

Grandchildren: Jade Bostick (Blake),

Molly Reeves (Ryan), Robert Chandler Holt

Great Grandchildren: Crawford Bostick and Ivie Bostick

Preceded In Death By:

Parents: H.W. and Raye Kitchens

Wife: Glenda Kitchens

Brothers: Thaxton Kitchens, Clyde Kitchens, and Sonny Kitchens

Condolences and special memories may be shared with the family at: www.ottsfuneralhome.net

Otts Funeral Home

Sulligent, AL, Directing