Ellen Verene "Ellie K" Kitchens

Ellen Verene "Ellie K" Kitchens, age 80, of Kettering, passed away July 10, 2026. She was born July 26, 1945 in Springfield, Ohio to the late William and Eleanor Draper. In addition to her parents, Ellen was preceded in death by her siblings: Fanny, Violet, Art, Willie and Billy; and lifetime partner, John G. Hayes, Sr.

Ellen is survived by her children: Melinda Kitchens, Galen Kitchens and Amy Henry (Patrick); grandchildren: Taylor (Kyle) Keeton, Jaclynn Henry, Jonathon Henry, Peyton Fagerlund and Roman Fagerlund; great-grandchildren: Kynslee, Ryker, Allison and Brianna; brother, Robert "Bob" Draper (Cheryl); numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Ellen was an accountant and then went on to earn her Bachelor's Degree in Nursing. She retired as a Registered Nurse from Greene Memorial Hospital. Ellen and John were beloved landlords in the Dayton area for many years. Ellen was a member of the Moose Lodge in Springfield and C.U.R.E. for many years. She loved dancing, clogging and traveling all over the United States performing with her clogging group.

Services are pending at this time and will be confirmed and announced on Monday, July 13, 2026 by Newcomer Funeral Home, North Chapel, 4104 Needmore Road, Dayton. 

Contributions may be made in Ellen's memory to either Hospice of Dayton or the Salvation Army.  To share a memory of Ellen or to leave her family a special message, please sign the online guestbook provided.

Ellen's funeral will be livestreamed at the scheduled service time.  A link to access will appear below once services have been finalized.