David Lavern Kitchen

David LaVern Kitchen, 54, ended his earthly journey on Thursday, February 9, 2023, and is on to a new chapter in his existence.

He was born on August 16, 1968, to Ralph LaVern and Sharon Ann (Nelson) Kitchen in Miami,

Oklahoma. He married his “Bayyb” and eternal love, Wanda Wright, on March 3, 1997, in Abilene, Texas. After high school, David enlisted to serve his country in the US Army. He honorably served his country for 20 years before retiring. During his service David was awarded the Iraq Campaign Medal with Three Campaign Stars, Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal (3rd Award), Army Good Conduct Medal (3rd Award), National Defense Service Medal (2nd Award), Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Global war on Terrorism Service Medal, and several other Awards and Decorations. Though deeply honored to be awarded such decorations, David would express his most proud achievement being his family.

The way in which one may remember David’s unique soul is limitless. To some David is remembered as a proud soldier with a quick wit and a unique sense of humor. To others, he is a gentle soul committed to protecting his loved ones. Anyone fortunate enough to cross paths with David can remember one of his many stories that carried the wisdom and a lesson to be learned. It is our turn to make use of what he taught us and spread all that he stood for.

David is preceded in death by his grandparents, father, Ralph Kitchen, and sister, Jaquelyn Denise Turner née Kitchen.

He is survived by his wife, Wanda; daughters, Catalla Marie Kitchen, Abbagale Nicole Kitchen, and Heather Rakael Kitchen; sons, Stefan Nyle Kitchen, and Kevin Lee Louis Atkinson; nine grandchildren and one on the way; his mom, Sharon Ann Nelson; brother James Joseph Kitchen, and numerous nieces and nephews. David will also be remembered by his Brothers in Arms.

A visitation will be held for David on Tuesday, February 14, 2023, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Lange Funeral Home in Ballinger, Texas. A graveside service will be held Wednesday, February 15, 2023, at 2:00 pm at Old Runnels Cemetery, with Sherman Morton officiating. To join the funeral procession, meet at Lange Funeral Home at 1 pm.