Mary Ann Kitchens Tripp passed away of cancer Thursday, April 19, 2018, at 3:30 am at Community Hospice in Fernandina Beach, FL. Mary Ann was born in Eastman, GA on August 28, 1952 to Mary Emma Mullis Kitchens and Olin “Buster” Kitchens. She graduated from Dodge County High School and retired from the South Central Health District as a WIC Vendor Coordinator. She lived out her last few years in Fernandina Beach, FL.
Mary Ann is survived by her husband of 35 years, Randy K. Tripp; daughter, Dawn Forbes; grandchild, Nathaniel (Nate) Forbes; brother, Otis Westberry; many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Mary Ann was preceded in death by her parents, her sister, Patricia Diann Kitchens Burton, and her two brothers, Olin Lee Theo (Bo) Kitchens and Robert James Kitchens.
Mary Ann was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and was cremated in her Temple Garments. As part of the Eternal Reefs program, Mary Ann’s ashes will be incorporated into an artificial reef formation in the ocean, providing a new habitat for fish and other sea life. Through this process, she will help to develop and support marine life forever, ensuring that future generations get to enjoy our beautiful oceans.
Mary Ann did not want a funeral, nor for her friends and family to be sad, but instead to be joyful that she is at peace with her Heavenly Father. Therefore, a celebration of her life will be held on June 10, 2018 at 2 pm at Gray Gables, 115 E. Clinton Street, Gray, GA 31032. Dress is casual attire.
Mary Ann loved her husband and family and was grateful for each day. She was a ray of sunshine to all who knew her and her smile was contagious. People often spoke of her wonderful spirit, kindness, faith, strength, fierceness and compassion. When asked what song she wanted played at her Celebration of Life, she chose “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” and the way she lived her life reflected this. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in her memory to her favorite crisis assistance program: Community Health Foundation, 1005 Boulder Drive, Gray, GA 31032. Condolences may be sent to the family at 1409 Beech Street, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034.
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HARDAGE-GIDDENS, THE OAKLAWN CHAPEL, 4801 San Jose Blvd is serving the family
