Henry Kitchings

Henry Kitchings, 91, of Goldston, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on August 25, 1934, Henry was the son of the late Robert Edwin Kitchings and Atherton Cummings Kitchings. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Kitchings, and his sister, Gwendolyn Smith.

Henry proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1953 to 1958. During his military service, he traveled to Germany, Japan, Italy, and Spain. Following his service, he graduated from East Carolina University and earned a Masters in Education at N.C. A&T which led to a remarkable 48-year career in education. He taught history, coached basketball and football, and served as a driver's education instructor, positively impacting generations of students.

In 1965, Henry married the love of his life, Daphne Gaines, and together they raised two sons, Chip and Scott. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose love for his family was evident in everything he did.

Henry was a longtime member of Goldston Methodist Church, where he faithfully served in various leadership roles. He was known for his quick wit, love of spirited debate, unwavering faith, and deep love for God. He enjoyed golfing, reading, spending time with his family, and gathering with friends at Rufus' Restaurant. He was an avid Richard Petty and NASCAR enthusiast, as well as a devoted New York Yankees fan.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Daphne Gaines Kitchings; his sons, Henry Brown “Chip” Kitchings II (Kim) and Scott Gaines Kitchings (Sonja); and his cherished grandchildren, Gracelyn Kitchings Dumaw (Hayden), Gillian Kitchings Laton (Seth), Connor Scott Kitchings, Julia Caroline Kitchings, and Henry Brown “Chase” Kitchings III.

Henry will also be remembered for his dedicated service to the Goldston community. He served on the Goldston Fire Board and Water Board and was a member of the Goldston Volunteer Fire Department for 46 years. His life was defined by service—to his family, his church, his community, and his country. Above all, he believed in living by the Golden Rule: treating others the way you want to be treated.

A celebration of Henry's life will be held at Goldston Methodist Church. Visitation will be on Friday, July 3, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. A graveside committal service with military honors will follow, and the family will receive friends during a reception in the church fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Goldston Methodist Church, PO Box 99, Goldston, NC 27252.

Smith & Buckner Funeral Home will be assisting the Kitchings family.

Online condolences can be made to www.smithbucknerfh.com