Stephen S. Kitchen

Stephen Stewart Kitchen, 78, resident of Jacksonville, Florida, passed away November 13, 2010 at Mayo Hospital. He graduated in 1950 from South Charleston High School. Married his best friend, Sharlie, in 1952 and was drafted into the Army during the Korean War. Served his country proudly, doing a tour duty in Okinawa for 18 months. Returning to civilian life, he worked for Ohio Bell 29 years. The break up of the Bell System in 1983 gave him the opportunity to transfer to Jacksonville, Florida, working another 10 years for American Transtech, an AT&T company.

He belonged to Mandarin United Methodist Church, Cedarville Lodge #0662, F.&A.M., Eastern Star, Aldora Chapter #262, Xenia, Ohio and the Telephone Pioneers of Dayton, Ohio.

He is pre-deceased by his parents, E.J. and Helen Kitchen, brother, Joseph and nephew, Mark.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Sharlie; daughters Stephanie (Hank) Manriquez, Rhonda (Fred) Cooper, sister Mary Wilson; grandchildren Rachel and Stephen Cooper; sister-in-law Betty Kitchen, niece Lori Wilson and nephews Joe and Chris Kitchen.

Graveside service on Saturday, November 27 at 11AM at Pleasant Grove Cemetery at 5076 North River Rd in Springfield Ohio. Fellowship time following the service at Locust Hills Golf Course at 5575 North River Road. Friends and relatives, please come and share a memory of Steve.

Contributions can be made to the charity of your choice.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin, 11801 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32223. www.hgmandarin.com (904) 288-0025.