Joy Carlene Kitchens

Joy Carlene (Karlene) Kitchens passed away on August 13, 2024 at the age of 96. She lived a full and vibrant life and touched the lives of many along the way with her humor and charm.

Born in San Angelo TX on March 23, 1928, she was the only child of Essie and Ted Bradford. She was very close to her mama and daddy and her childhood was spent enjoying their ranch life. 

On August 9, 1945 she married Herbert Bowie (Rocky) Lane (deceased), they had three children, one son Herbie Ned, and two daughters; Kerry Jan and Kristi Kathern. She was a skillfully licensed beautician, who owned and operated her own beauty shop, competed in hair design and attended beauty conferences in Dallas. She played softball and was a member of many clubs and organizations. 

After raising her family, Karlene was remarried to Otis Roy Kitchens (deceased), and spent years traveling and camping in the National Parks and lakes of the Southwest. She loved long visits with family and friends and was especially fond of horses, birds, and all of her pets. All of them. 

Later in life, Karlene moved to Ruidoso Downs, where she enjoyed playing an active role in her family’s life and telling stories of yesteryear. She continued to call the mountains her home until her passing. 

Karlene is preceded in death by her parents Essie and Ted, her son Ned, and her great-great granddaughter Emma.

She is survived by her daughters, Kerry Jan and Kristi Kathryn, her grandchildren Kassi, Angie, Shane, Eva, Melissa, Joy, Nedra and Bruce, her great-grandchildren Jessie, Jayci, Heather, Lane, Brandon, Donovon, Mia, Nolan, Jaxsyn, Gage, and Colton, her great-great grandchildren Keegan, Kinsley, Ryker, Haley, Charlotte, Israel and Estrella, and her beloved family and friends in Texas and New Mexico.

Karlene, Mom, Momecce ~ forever in our hearts, we love you.