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.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 am - 11:00 am on Thursday, July 16, 2026 at Newcomer Funeral Home, North Chapel, 4104 Needmore Road, Dayton, Ohio, where the funeral service will begin at 11:00 am.  Ellen will be laid to rest following the service at Rose Hill Burial Park, Springfield, Ohio.

Contributions may be made in Ellen's memory to either Alzheimer's Association, 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. See link below.