Verna Kitchell

Mrs. Kitchell was born in Ft. Myers/Tice, Florida on July 8, 1933, to her parents, J.L. and Maggie (Brown) Smith. She graduated from Ft. Myers Senior High School in 1951. She married her sweetheart, Kenneth Kitchell, in 1957, where they established a home and careers in Naples. Verna and Kenneth were married for over fifty-six years, during which time he served for many years at the Collier County Sherriff's Department, retiring as Captain.

Verna was well known and respected as an owner of Verda's Beauty Salon in the Crayton Cove area of Olde Naples. She provided styling services from the 1960's through the 1980's. As a master stylist to her clientele of the Port Royal area, she was acknowledged and beloved as a friend and acquaintance to many of Naples' Old Timers. Verna's energy, vivacity, warmth, and authenticity were embraced by all who encountered her.

After her retirement, Mrs. Kitchell dedicated herself to spending time with her extensive family. She enjoyed time with her husband at their camp in the Everglades, air boating, hunting, and entertaining long-time friends and colleagues. In addition, Verna was a devoted and proud mother and grandmother to her daughter Kathy Kitchell, and grandchildren, Kenneth Jones and Kaley Endres. Her extended family includes many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Verna is survived by her daughter Kathy Kitchell, her grandchildren, Kenneth Jones and Kaley Endres, her brother Joe Smith, of Old Town, FL, and her sister Jean Yontz, of Conyers, GA. She is preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Kitchell, her brother, Ray Smith, and her two sisters, Willette Turner and Mildred Turner, all of Naples, FL.

Mrs. Kitchell will be interred at Naples Memorial Gardens at 525-111th Ave N, Naples, FL 34108 on Tuesday, May 1, at 3:00 PM. Pastor Steve McGraw of New Hope Ministries will officiate the graveside service. Following the service, a reception will be hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Gary Turner at their home at 2740 68th St. SW, Naples, FL 34105. Condolences may be left online at www.HodgesNaplesMG.com.