Elena L. Kirton

Elena and her husband, William “Bill”, met in Camp Baird, Panama, where they both attended Rainbow City High School. They were married on July 27, 1968, shortly after her “Billy” returned from Vietnam. They were blessed to have three children.

Elena was a devoted military wife and loving mother, who enjoyed sewing, cross-stitching, hosting parties, cooking, teaching Sunday school, and gardening. Once her youngest child entered elementary school, she rejoined the workforce with the Department of Defense where she was awarded for her exemplary work. Bill retired from the US Air Force in 1990, after 26 years of service and the family moved back to Hampton. Elena eventually retired, and added more hobbies; shopping being her favorite. She enjoyed being a member of Bethel Temple Church.

Elena leaves to cherish her memory, her husband of 55 years, Bill; sons, Alex Kirton and Darrell Kirton; daughter, Lizette Kirton; grandchildren, Ashley Ditchburn (Richard), Gabrielle Kirton and Kamiyah Kirton; great-grandchildren, Freya Ditchburn and Malakai Ditchburn; sisters, Cynthia Laurie and Gloria McIntyre; brothers, Ovid Laurie, Jr. and Carlos Lauries; brother-in-laws, Robert Kirton (Jeanette) and Angel Kirton; sister-in-law, Sandra DeSousa and Patricia Kendrick (Willie); and a host of family and friends.

A visitation for Elena will be held Wednesday, September 20, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 2551 North Armistead Ave, Hampton, Virginia 23666. A visitation will occur Thursday, September 21, 2023 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Bethel Temple Church, 1705 Todds Ln., Hampton, Virginia 23666. A celebration of life will occur Thursday, September 21, 2023 at 12:00 PM. An interment to follow the service will occur at Hampton Memorial Gardens, 155 Butler Farm Road, Hampton, Virginia 23666.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared below for the Kirton family.