Michael Kittrell

Michael G. Kittrell, beloved son, brother, uncle and friend passed away suddenly at his residence on Wednesday March 5, 2025, at the age of 68. Mikey was born on September 13, 1956, in Wilmington NC to Edward Lee Kittrell, Sr. and Mary Malpass Kittrell.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his dear brother, Larry Wayne Kittrell and his second mother, Aunt Louise Malpass.

Mikey is survived by his sister and best friend, Lisa A. Kittrell of Wilmington NC; big brother Edward Lee Kittrell Jr. and wife Kathy and sister–in-law Sherry W. Kittrell. He was a loving uncle to Heather, Shanna Kay, Tracy, Justin, Aaliyah, Lyra, Wyatt, Dylan, Derek and Donovan. Also surviving is Mikey’s life partner Larry Grimsley and many loving cousins and dear friends as well.

Mike graduated from John T. Hoggard High School and when on to work and have stellar careers with Carolina Power and Light Company, Southern Bell and New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

Mikey leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, hope and kindness to everyone he knew. Not to mention that he joked of being a “therapist “as well. His humor, jokes and sarcasm are unmatched. He had something funny to say about most things. He had a profound impact on his family and friends, always willing to talk or answer any questions just to help. The world is a little colder and darker without Mikey in it. His absence will be forever felt by all who knew and loved him. We love you Mikey, you will be forever loved and missed.

Mike and his partner, Larry, met in 1994 and they both knew that they, as kindred spirits, would spend as much of their life together as possible and they had for the past 31 years. Sometimes they seemed like the odd couple because of being from different generations, but true and unconditional love has no constrictions or rules. Any problems, obstacles or misunderstandings only strengthened their relationship. Mike exposed Larry to an infinite library of music, history, faith, personal wisdom, and the love of family. As life partners they had many adventures including their title “The Buffet Boys” due to their love of trying new restaurants and Larry always supported Mike’s casino adventures and Saturdays they spent with Mike and his lottery ‘scratch offs’.

Mike and Larry made each other’s lives fulfilling and anyone would be blessed to share what they had and still do. To be loved by Mike was a true gift and a true blessing from heaven and you were his friend for life since he possessed the ability to remember anyone’s birthday or other important life events and you always received a call, text or a card. Every morning when he woke, he would pray before getting out of bed and that included for others; family and friends. Not a single blemish of pretentiousness, hate or cruelty inhabited his beautiful soul. Mike and Larry were true soul mates with Mike teaching him the skills to move on through any difficulties; especially now.

Due to Mike’s love of animals (especially stray animals) the family kindly request that donations be made to Pender County Animal Shelter, 3280 New Savannah Rd. Burgaw, NC 28425.

A Celebration of Life will be held at noon on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at Coble Funeral & Cremation Service at Greenlawn Memorial Park Chapel, 1155 Shipyard Blvd., Wilmington, NC. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.