James (Jim), (Jimmie) Monroe Kitchens was born in Waldo, Arkansas on December 14th, 1930, to George T Kitchens and Mary Helen Askew. Jim is survived by his two sons, Ronald James (Vicki Lynn) and Frederick George (Lisa). He is also survived by his Grandchildren, James David, Nicholas Jesse, Reggie Darren, Nicolette Rogena and Vinni Reilly. Jim was preceded in death by his wife of 38 years, Rogena Amin and his beloved Grandson Jesse Aaron Kitchens. Jim was the last surviving member of his family of eight.
Jim was a high school basketball star on Waldo High School’s basketball team. They won the 1948 District Conference Championship. He attended Southern State College in Magnolia, Arkansas where he earned a degree in Business Management. Jim enlisted in the Unites States Air Force and fought in the Korean War. Along the way he earned a Good Conduct Medal and an Air Force Longevity Service Award Record. He also received Korean, United Nations, and National Defense Service Medals. He retired with the rank of Staff Sergeant in 1959. Jim enjoyed a long and prosperous 30 year career at Gates Rubber Company in Denver.
He married his true love, Rogena Amin on October 17, 1956. Together they built a home in Northglenn, Colorado and lovingly raised their children. Jim loved fishing, coaching his children in baseball, and coin collecting. He also loved serving seniors and volunteering his time to help others in need. Jim cherished family time and especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and passing on his favorite pastimes. Jim cherished his religious faith and regularly attended the Amazing Grace Methodist Church in Thornton, Colorado when his health allowed. Jim was also a very tall man and was quite the practical jokester. His whole life he was asked how tall he was, so for the last few years of his life he would tell folks exactly how tall he was……….. 5’17”, but at the end of the day……..He was the ultimate family man. He will forever be missed by all of us.
Fond memories of James and expressions of sympathy for his family may be shared at the guest book below.
