Jessie Denver Kitchens, 86, of Poplar Bluff, died Thursday, June 3, 2004, at his home.

He was born June 22, 1917, son of the late Solomon James and Minnie May McFerron Kitchens in Leora, Mo.

He was a sailor in the U.S. Navy and served in several stations, including Guantanimo Bay, Puerto Rico and Japan. He was in Okinawa when a Kamikaze pilot destroyed his ship. He retired from the John J. Pershing Medical Center.

He married Marjorie Brandon on Oct. 12, 1978, and resided in Poplar Bluff until his death.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Bammie King; and three brothers, Floyd, David and Virgil.

He is survived by his wife of the home; one sister, Peggy Mitchell and husband, Ralph; several nephews and nieces. Among those who were especially close are, Ann and Jerry Winkler, Jerry and Betsy Kitchen of St. Louis, and Judge Steven and Diane Mitchell of Dexter.

Graveside funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 5, at the Piggott Cemetery with Rev. Donald Richmann officiating. Irby Funeral Home of Piggott was in charge of arrangements.