Janie Avery Kitchens

Janie Avery Kitchens, age 92, passed away Wednesday, September 16, 2026. Services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Sunday, September 20th at the chapel of Couey Reece Stanley Funeral Home. Burial will follow at New Salem Church Cemetery.

Ms. Kitchens was born in Jones County, Georgia on February 7, 1934, to the late Frank Avery and Florence Miller. She worked for the Jones County School System as a Nutritionist for over 38 years. She was preceded in death by her husband Ray Kitchens, Jr., and two daughter Brenda Dale Kitchens and Carol Kitchens Brower.

Mrs. Kitchens remained young at heart and lived life to the fullest until the very end. She had a way of making the world around her a little brighter.

She found joy in the simple things—spending time outdoors, tending to her beloved flower garden, and watching the beauty of something she planted come to life. Her garden was a reflection of her: full of color, warmth, and love.

She also treasured adventure and time spent with her sisters and family. Road trips together created memories she cherished, filled with laughter, stories, and perhaps a little friendly competition along the way. She enjoyed trying her luck at the slots, always ready to have a little fun and see where the next adventure might lead.

For nearly 40 years, she dedicated herself to working in school nutrition. But to call it simply a job would never do justice to what she meant to the students she served. Generation after generation of children knew her, loved her, and remembered her kindness. She was a familiar and comforting presence in their school days, leaving an impression that lasted long after they had grown up.

The love and respect those students had for her was beautifully demonstrated when she was chosen to serve as Grand Marshal of the Homecoming Parade. What an extraordinary honor—and a fitting tribute to a woman who had spent so many years caring for and serving her community.

At home, her family knew her love in the sweetest ways. Her homemade biscuits and divinity candy were family favorites—made with love and enjoyed around the table and during special occasions. The holidays simply wouldn't have been the same without her. She had a gift for adding those special touches that made every celebration feel warmer, more meaningful, and filled with love.

She leaves behind more than 92 years of memories. She leaves flowers that will bloom, recipes that will be made and shared, stories that will be told, family traditions that will continue, and countless people who were better for having known her.

Her life was one of service, family, laughter, kindness, and love. And just like the flowers she so lovingly tended, her legacy will continue to bloom in the hearts of all who knew her.

She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.

Survivors include a son Danny Ray Kitchens of Jones County, two daughters Sara Holland of McIntyre and Robbie Croom (Richard)of Macon, a son-in-law Johnny Brower of Pensacola, FL, a sister Martha Sanders Bivins of Gordon, grandchildren, Danny Kitchens, Jr., Lily Kitchens, Cindy Whiddon (Michael), Richard Croom III, (Melaine), Christy Williams (Chad), Chris Holland (Leslie), Scott Holland (Jennifer), Amanda Kirwan (Matt), John Brower (Brittany) and 17 great grandchildren, 2 great great-grandchildren, special niece Janice Kizziah and a special friend Vickie Johnson.

The family will receive friends Sunday from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m. at Couey Reece Stanley Funeral Home and also at 1934 E H Snow Rd in McIntyre.

Couey Reece Stanley Funeral Home has charge of arrangements.