Our precious Anne left us too soon. We will never understand the Lord’s ways with this. But, we take comfort knowing, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that she is rejoicing with Jesus! We created a GatheringUs memorial to celebrate the life of Anne Duke Kittrell. The family would love to hear your stories and... see moreOur precious Anne left us too soon. We will never understand the Lord’s ways with this. But, we take comfort knowing, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that she is rejoicing with Jesus! We created a GatheringUs memorial to celebrate the life of Anne Duke Kittrell. The family would love to hear your stories and memories of Anne during this time of intense grief. Share what she meant to you— one word or more. Whatever you have on your heart. Thank you for contributing any pictures, stories, comments, and condolences to her family and friends. As we plan a funeral and other gatherings, we will share details here. Please share this link with others!
We have also set up a GoFundMe page for the kids...you can check that out here... https://gf.me/u/yqatr7
OBITUARY
Obituary - Anne Duke Kittrell
Anne Duke Kittrell (April 10, 1971- August 7, 2020)
Ask anyone what they remember about Anne Duke Kittrell and they will mention her love for her children, and her innate ability to meet people right where they are in life. Anne went to her eternal home, unexpectedly, on the morning of Friday August 7 while on her way to a routine Doctor’s appointment.
Anne was born in Lancaster, PA to James... see moreObituary - Anne Duke Kittrell
Anne Duke Kittrell (April 10, 1971- August 7, 2020)
Ask anyone what they remember about Anne Duke Kittrell and they will mention her love for her children, and her innate ability to meet people right where they are in life. Anne went to her eternal home, unexpectedly, on the morning of Friday August 7 while on her way to a routine Doctor’s appointment.
Anne was born in Lancaster, PA to James Edward and Barbara Duke. Her parents later settled in Damascus, MD for the majority of her childhood. She attended Damascus High School and graduated from James Madison University with a degree in Education. She received her Masters in Education from Old Dominion University as well as her Gifted Endorsement.
Anne met Kevin Kittrell at James Madison University and married him on January 1, 1994. They were married for 24 years. They were blessed to have three amazing children: Samuel, Benjamin, and Emma. Christ was always at the center of their family. Anne, Kevin, and their children followed a call in 2004 to start an international church in Brussels, Belgium.
Anne and Kevin were part of the launch team for the first ever Serve the City, a global movement of volunteers showing kindness in practical ways to people in need. Anne and Kevin helped to launch the first Serve the City in Virginia Beach in December 2016, which is still an active and growing ministry.
Anne served Virginia Beach City Public Schools in a multitude of ways as a teacher. Her career started at Ocean Lakes High School as an English teacher. Once she started having her children, she decided to stay home with her proudest accomplishments. Once she returned to the school system, she served in many capacities - as an elementary school gifted resource teacher, as a middle school literacy coach, and most recently, as a high school gifted resource teacher at Green Run High School. She had a passion for teaching children. But she was much more than a teacher to her students as she invested in them, spent time with them, and prayed for them.
Kevin was diagnosed with cancer in late 2016. After a courageous year and a half battle, Kevin went to be with the Lord on December 21, 2017. After Kevin died Anne viewed life differently. She saw life as fleeting. She wanted to live her life abundantly and to the fullest. She didn’t wait “until tomorrow”. She consistently, authentically, and unapologetically lived life to its fullest. She invested in others and she loved deeply.
For most of her time in Virginia Beach she attended and was fed at Trinity Church. Trinity ministered to her in such a special way, especially when she lost Kevin. However, after Anne gained her footing, Vineyard Church became her new church home where she was excited about deepening her walk with Jesus.
Anne is survived by her parents, James Edward and Barbara Duke, her brother Chris Duke and his family, and her sister in law Kim George and her family. But most importantly she is survived by her wonderful children, and by Chad Dunn. Chad showed Anne that it was possible to love again. He brought so much joy to their lives. We are incredibly thankful for him. Anne would want all of us to shower her family, especially her children, with consistent prayers and unconditional love in the days, months, and years ahead.
While Anne’s life was brief on this earth, we take comfort knowing where she is spending her eternity. We will celebrate her life on Friday at 4:00 pm at Trinity Church/Oceanfront Campus, 401 35th St., Virginia Beach. Thanks to COVID19, it will be by invite only. A private burial will occur at Alfred G. Horton Veterans Cemetery in Suffolk, VA, at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Green Run High School (send checks to Green Run High School with “Anne’s Love Fund” designated in the memo line).
Please feel free to post pictures, thoughts, and condolences on this Memorial site. https://www.gatheringus.com/memorial/anne-kittrell/4676.
Anne was one of the leaders for the Intervarsity Christian Fellowship small group I joined after transferring to JMU in 1992. IV was a huge part of my experience at JMU and small group was integral to that since that is what allowed you to really get to... moreAnne was one of the leaders for the Intervarsity Christian Fellowship small group I joined after transferring to JMU in 1992. IV was a huge part of my experience at JMU and small group was integral to that since that is what allowed you to really get to know people and openly share and learn and grow in your relationship with Christ. Anne was an important part of that and always so caring, kind and encouraging. Although we did not stay in close touch over the years, I never forgot the impact she made on me. I was happy to see that she had been blessed with a beautiful family and life. The loss of Kevin and now this is just so unspeakably sad. My heart and prayers go out to her precious kids and family. May God bless all. less
Dear Sweet Anne,
I am so sorry that I only had a short time knowing you but you were such a very kind person, always sensing when others were in need and reaching out at just the right moment. Only last year at this time, I lost my father and you sent... moreDear Sweet Anne,
I am so sorry that I only had a short time knowing you but you were such a very kind person, always sensing when others were in need and reaching out at just the right moment. Only last year at this time, I lost my father and you sent such thoughtful, healing words. I thought that I would share them here. "Death ends a life but not a relationship" by Mitch Albon. "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or morning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." Revelations 21:4. Your loving kindness and caring spirit will surely live on in the good work that you have done with your faith and through all the family and friends that you have left behind.
Peace and love to you. I know that you are with our Heavenly Father.
My prayers and thoughts go out to your sweet family.
Love,
Kay less
Anne was one of my best friends throughout high school and college. We did Student Government, theater, prom, spirit week and homecomings at Damascus High School. We went on to James Madison together and lived in Dingledine dorm. Anne and I did... moreAnne was one of my best friends throughout high school and college. We did Student Government, theater, prom, spirit week and homecomings at Damascus High School. We went on to James Madison together and lived in Dingledine dorm. Anne and I did Intervarsity Christian Fellowship and small groups together. I have so many memories with Anne. We hiked, carved pumpkins, double dated, went wedding dress shopping, had bridal showers, sleepovers and many girls trips to the beach. We had an upcoming trip planned at the end of this month after she recovered from her knee surgery. I was so looking forward to catching up with her and meeting her new husband, Chad. Anne was the maid of honor in my wedding, and it is hard to imagine this world without her in it. Anne was beautiful inside and out, and she radiated the love of Jesus. I take comfort knowing she is resting in the arms of her Savior. My deepest condolences to Emma, Ben, Sam, Chad, Chris, Anne's parents and all who loved her. less
I met Anne many years ago in MOPS. She was a powerful presence with a calming spirit. She sang "Mary Did You Know" with her newborn in her arms to our MOPS group. I didn't really like Christian music at that time, but something about the way... moreI met Anne many years ago in MOPS. She was a powerful presence with a calming spirit. She sang "Mary Did You Know" with her newborn in her arms to our MOPS group. I didn't really like Christian music at that time, but something about the way Anne sang that song to us has returned to me year after year. It became my favorite Christmas song.
My next memory is of Anne and Kevin presenting their ministry trip in our home as they were working on launching in Brussels. It was so easy to believe this was a worthwhile cause to invest in as these two explained their hearts. I was so impressed with their passion and bravery. It was so evident how much they loved and respected one another.
I moved a lot after my time with MOPS in Virginia Beach, but the few times I would chat with Anne online it was always a grounding experience. She was wise and sincere and rooted in God's love. She was present in even the shortest of texts or emails.
I credit Anne and my time in MOPS with bringing me back to my faith. She made me want to be a part of something that brought that much peace. I am grateful to have known her and Kevin, and I am filled with joy to know she is with Jesus and Kevin today. What a comfort until we get to join them ourselves one day. Thank you Anne, and may your children forever feel wrapped in love by the enormous "family" you built and left behind to care for them. less
Dear Anne, I am deeply saddened to hear of your passing. You were a wonderful friend. I cherished our friendship and time we got to spend together. You were hugely instrumental in growing my relationship with God. I still have my bible that you gave me.... moreDear Anne, I am deeply saddened to hear of your passing. You were a wonderful friend. I cherished our friendship and time we got to spend together. You were hugely instrumental in growing my relationship with God. I still have my bible that you gave me. You had such a beautiful spirit. Looking back over the years and remembering our friendship when I was in high school, has always been one of my most warmest and fondest memories. I still remember your "Chinese Chicken Salad" my favorite! God Bless You and Your Family. I pray your spirit and soul will be happy and at peace. Love! Your Friend, Mallory less
Ever since I heard of Anne's death a week ago, I have been hearing this song in my head - Anne and I used to sing it on rainy days at JMU as we splashed through puddles on our way back and forth from our dorm to class: "There's a river of life,... moreEver since I heard of Anne's death a week ago, I have been hearing this song in my head - Anne and I used to sing it on rainy days at JMU as we splashed through puddles on our way back and forth from our dorm to class: "There's a river of life, flowing out of me. Makes the lame to walk and the blind to see. Opens prison doors, sets the captives free. There's a river of life flowing out of me. Spring up oh well, within my soul. Spring up oh well, and make me whole. Spring up oh well, and give to me, that life abundantly." My heart is full of grief, and I feel pain for Anne's family especially. But I believe that Anne is whole, and continuing to live life abundantly. Thank you for the music and the joy, Anne. less
Anne was my editor. She may have been a gentle soul, but she wouldn't let me hide behind my words. On one occasion she gave me the advice: "More detail, more imagery, more grit please." Please. Ha. That's Anne in sentence for you.
Jim and Barb used a bell to call Anne, Jenni and me back from playing in the woods and creek. When I had my own kids, we put a bell on our back door to call our own kids home. It was such a sweet memory. When all the girls at my 10 year old birthday... moreJim and Barb used a bell to call Anne, Jenni and me back from playing in the woods and creek. When I had my own kids, we put a bell on our back door to call our own kids home. It was such a sweet memory. When all the girls at my 10 year old birthday party were dressed as princesses and ballerinas, Anne donned her dad's trench coat, put on a fedora and brought along her pad and pen to complete her "Reporter" costume. A writer, always. When all of us "80's" girls were headed to the mall to buy our red and teal prom dresses, Anne went to a little shop and bought a vintage, dusty rose pink, satin dress. Always one step ahead of the pack. My memories are from childhood. We lost touch along the way. She will always have a special place in my heart. God Bless her children, family and friends less
Green Run Young Life will remember "Ms. Kitt" as someone who joined our leadership when she first started working at Green Run. She and Chad spent many Tuesday afternoons at Club sharing the love of Jesus with our students. They also shared... moreGreen Run Young Life will remember "Ms. Kitt" as someone who joined our leadership when she first started working at Green Run. She and Chad spent many Tuesday afternoons at Club sharing the love of Jesus with our students. They also shared homemade pasta sauce and spaghetti with us! We will miss her warm smile and consistent encouragement. The relationships she made, though brief, were meaningful. Chad and her family are in our prayers. less
I first met Anne as my 11th grade English teacher at Ocean Lakes High School. She was always so inspiring to me as she shared her passion for literature and life in general as our teacher. As her student, I felt safe and cared for, but also challenged... moreI first met Anne as my 11th grade English teacher at Ocean Lakes High School. She was always so inspiring to me as she shared her passion for literature and life in general as our teacher. As her student, I felt safe and cared for, but also challenged to be a creative thinker and to be able to respectfully challenge ideas. She was enlightening. I am so grateful to have also had the opportunity to work as a Gifted Resource Teacher and share how inspirational she was to me with her. I will forever be grateful for her kindness, love, and passion for enriching other people's lives that she shared. My heart goes out to all others who are better because of her and her heart. less
Anne's light shone bright wherever she went and I am thankful for her presence in my life. Anne and I went to both high school and college together. I will always remember her warm smile, the twinkle in her eyes, and her huge, compassionate heart. Anne... moreAnne's light shone bright wherever she went and I am thankful for her presence in my life. Anne and I went to both high school and college together. I will always remember her warm smile, the twinkle in her eyes, and her huge, compassionate heart. Anne was a calming presence , a voice of wisdom, a shoulder to cry on, but most of all, a loving friend. I will never forget running into her on the quad at JMU and the light in her eyes when she spoke of her boyfriend, Kevin. I loved seeing her happiness and the beautiful life they built together. I admired their willingness to uproot their family and serve as missionaries in Europe. I remember her sharing the story of how the Bible study "If You Want to Walk on Water, You Have to Get Out of the Boat" inspired them on their quest and I promptly went out and bought the study. Her faith, strength, courage, raw vulnerability and willingness to love again after the loss of Kevin inspired me further. Anne's very life inspired all of us to know the Lord more richly and deeply, and I am forever grateful for the gift of Anne in my life. My prayers go out to her children, her husband, her family and friends. less
Anne and I were classmates all through elementary, junior, and high school. We shared the love of Duran Duran for many years, as well as band and theatre. She was always such a gentle soul and couldn't have come from a more loving family. My heart breaks... moreAnne and I were classmates all through elementary, junior, and high school. We shared the love of Duran Duran for many years, as well as band and theatre. She was always such a gentle soul and couldn't have come from a more loving family. My heart breaks for her husband and children, but know that they will be well taken care of. We will miss you, sweet Anne, may you rest in peace. XO less
Anne and I were colleagues at Green Run High School. Although our time together was brief, she touched me deeply. Anne and I hit it off immediately because she was easy to talk to and because we shared the love of God, family and hope for the world. ... moreAnne and I were colleagues at Green Run High School. Although our time together was brief, she touched me deeply. Anne and I hit it off immediately because she was easy to talk to and because we shared the love of God, family and hope for the world. We spoke often about our children and the love of Christ. She was an excellent role model for students and new teachers. Her mission seemed to be to serve and she did that well by adding love, encouragement and humor to everything she did. Anne was an outstanding educator who went the extra mile to ensure that her students were well equipped to tackle any task. Returning to Green Run will be different without her smiling face and inspiring conversations. I send my sincere condolences to her family and friends. May God's grace surround you as you go through this transition and give you peace and comfort.
God's Blessings and Love, Dr. Betty J. Spencer less
Anne and I grew up together as little girls attending Ascension Episcopal Church in Gaithersburg, Maryland. I was beyond delighted to rekindle our friendship at James Madison University. We enjoyed commuting back and forth from school to home together.... moreAnne and I grew up together as little girls attending Ascension Episcopal Church in Gaithersburg, Maryland. I was beyond delighted to rekindle our friendship at James Madison University. We enjoyed commuting back and forth from school to home together. Conversations flowed as we discussed our growing love for the Lord and all we were learning through our InterVarsity Christian Fellowship experience. Anne was always encouraging. I also became friends with Kevin during our college years. My heart broke when Kevin died, and now my love and prayers extend to all who loved her, especially Emma, Ben, Sam, Chad, and the Duke family. less
Over the last several years people have often asked me how I face health issues with so much calm in the face of death. I always tell them that is because of Christ, but the way that God instilled that in me was through my friends the Kittrell's.... moreOver the last several years people have often asked me how I face health issues with so much calm in the face of death. I always tell them that is because of Christ, but the way that God instilled that in me was through my friends the Kittrell's.
Shortly before my stroke, Kitt was diagnosed with cancer. Being in a small group together I watched him bravely face death, with his main focus being that he glorify God through his trial. So when I had a stroke a few weeks later, I was ready. I thought of Kitt and resolved that my goal would be to glorify God regardless of the outcome. But it wasn't just Kitt, it was his whole family. Watching Anne echo those same words, watching as she held close to him, knowing that he would soon be gone, I knew that her road was the tougher one. It inspired me to be a better husband, knowing that someday that could be my wife's road as well. Reading the words that Sam wrote, inspired me to be a better man.
The same has been true this last year. From the prognosis of heart failure, through the surgeries and medicines and the stark reminder that we are all going to die. I have often thought of my friends Kevin and Anne, it will be a while before I get to tell them how much they have encouraged me through these days. My heart breaks for Sam, Ben and Emma along with everyone else who loved these amazing people.
If you're reading this, I'm sure that they would want you to know that you're a sinner, the moment you sinned once you were at odds with a Righteous and Just God and deserved death. However, because God loves you, He sent His son to die on the cross and accept the penalty for your sin. If you want to see my friends Kevin and Anne again, accept His gift, repent of your sins and follow Him. We do not grieve as those without hope, but grieve as those who know that we will see our dear friends again. less
Anne was one of the first faces I saw upon arriving at JMU when I checked in at Dingledine Hall. Jesus really shown in her eyes in a profound way. I will always remember that moment of meeting her. Thankful to grieve with hope (1 Thes 4:13)! Prayers for the family!
Oh my heart. I just saw you a couple weeks ago. In the short time I knew you, you have been such a tremendous blessing to my family. At a time when my husband and I felt defeated, you gave us hope. Even your voice was just so calming and positive. The... moreOh my heart. I just saw you a couple weeks ago. In the short time I knew you, you have been such a tremendous blessing to my family. At a time when my husband and I felt defeated, you gave us hope. Even your voice was just so calming and positive. The moment you showed us your rental property, as you called it, “the little house”, I knew it was the perfect little temporary house for my family. My family had been through so much hardship in the months leading up to that day. You listened to our story, empathized with us and ultimately in the end said you felt the Lord was telling you to have us live here. I loved that your intentions for the home was to help people who were going through hard times. What a special gift. You opened your home to us with open arms and we will be forever grateful for the kindness you showed us. The last time I spoke to you on the phone a week or so ago, it was about how we thought we needed a plumber for the outside spigot only to realize the inside water for the outside spigot was shut off inside the house. Easy fix. Lol We laughed about it together and were just thankful we hadn’t called the plumber yet.
To Ben, Sam and Emma Grace.. I have no words for the pain you are feeling. I lost my dad when I was 18. Anytime you want to pick up the phone and call your mom for advice and guidance, close your eyes and look deep down in your heart, there you will find the answers and advice of what she would give you. I’m so sorry. Chad, I am praying for you all. For peace and comfort in these coming days and weeks.
This flower bloomed in the yard the morning after you went to be with the Lord. It reminded me of you.
Rest In peace Anne. Heaven gained a special angel, that’s for sure. You are so loved and so missed. less
Where do I start?? I'm sure Anne would correct me in some way for starting a paragraph with that question when we first met. She was my 11th grade English teacher at Ocean Lakes back then in 1997-98. Since then, her and Kevin (Kitt) have been so much... moreWhere do I start?? I'm sure Anne would correct me in some way for starting a paragraph with that question when we first met. She was my 11th grade English teacher at Ocean Lakes back then in 1997-98. Since then, her and Kevin (Kitt) have been so much more. After that year, I was struggling with school and had some personal struggles and I came to know God because of these two wonderful people in 1999 when they were involved with Spring Branch and YoungLife. Throughout the years we had infrequent contract, but whenever I was home in VB we would at least contact each other. When Kitt became very ill, I happened to be home and decided I should make time to see him. Anne told me that he wasn't feeling well and it might not be a good time. Well long story short he insisted I came over and that will now become the last time I saw either of them. I miss them both as I'm sure anyone who knew them does.... but what a great final meeting it was. They were both so fantastic, you wouldn't have known they were going through anything as serious as Kevin's illness was. May God bless the kids and may they be reminded how great their mother and father
are with stories like mine...eternally grateful less
Anne was my small group leader freshman year at JMU. When she and Kevin got stationed at Fort story, I could not have been more excited. We were in small groups together, had our boys 8 days apart, and spent lots of fun times together. We had a few low... moreAnne was my small group leader freshman year at JMU. When she and Kevin got stationed at Fort story, I could not have been more excited. We were in small groups together, had our boys 8 days apart, and spent lots of fun times together. We had a few low points together, but had come back together over this last year and a half. I got to spend several nights with her and most recently dinner with her and Chad just about two weeks ago. We were texting each other the day before she passed away and I don’t doubt she knew how much I loved her. And yet having 30 years with her was not enough. We had such plans to grow old with Chad and Jeff by our sides. She was and always will be an amazing woman because of her faith in God, her sweet words, and the way she fiercely loved those around her. less