Justine D. Kitchen
March 24, 1925 - October 4, 2025
A proud native Delawarean, Justine passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 4, 2025 at home. She was the last original owner of homes on the street where she lived.
Born in Elsmere, DE on March 24, 1925, she was a daughter of the late Alma and Adrian Donovan. Justine graduated from P.S. DuPont High School, class of 1942 and attended all their reunions. She then earned her associates degree from Goldey-Beacom College. Justine was employed at the DuPont Experimental Station as a secretary during the WWII years. She later was employed as a secretary at the John G. Leach School from which she retired in 1987.
Justine enjoyed her loving family and her busy life. She particularly enjoyed being with her great-granddaughter, Marley. Justine always looked forward to attending her children and grandchildren’s activities. She could often be found dancing, bowling, traveling, doing puzzles, counting cross stitch and other handwork. Justine was a member of Calvary Presbyterian Church and its Women’s Circle; Five Points Chapter No. 13 O.E.S. (now Caesar Rodney Chapter No. 8) for over 65 years. She was also a member of the New Castle Chapter AARP and volunteered at Emily P. Bissell Hospital over 20 years.
In addition to her parents, Justine was preceded in death by her loving husband, Bill, after almost 70 years of marriage; and sisters, June Carter, Marjorie Moran and Eleanor Donovan. She is survived by her sons, Mark and Jeffrey (Cheryl); grandchildren, Todd and Michelle; great-granddaughter, Marley; brother, Adrian Donovan; and many nieces and nephews.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10 am until 11 am on Friday, October 10, 2025, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 1000 North DuPont Parkway, New Castle, DE, where a funeral service will begin at 11 am. Interment will follow in Gracelawn Memorial Park, 2220 North DuPont Highway, New Castle, DE. Those attending are encouraged to wear bright colored clothing.
In lieu of flowers, contribution may be made to Calvary Presbyterian Church, 701 S Maryland Ave, Wilmington DE 19804 or online by clicking here.
Bill & Maria Huntley
To Jeff and family:
Maria & I are very sorry to hear of your mother’s passing and of your loss. May God be with you during this difficult time.
With heartfelt condolence,
Bill & Maria Huntley
Dave Lance
Jeff. Sincere condolences from Mary and I. We know what it is like to lose a parent since we have both lost our parents in the not too distant past.
Rest easy that you can rejoice in the many fond memories from your life together.
Again our condolences
Dave & Mary Lance
William and Mary Lutz
Mark, Jeff and Family. We are so sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. We have fond memories of Justine and Billy when they would visit our parents, their aunt and uncle, in Richmond, Virginia. We will keep your family close in prayer during this difficult time.
Bill and Mary Lutz
Maureen Donovan Carman
I miss Justine already! We visited over the past few years when I would visit the New Castle area. It was so nice to retell family stories, share history we did not know, and keep up with each others’ families. Our deep condolences to Justine’s family, Maureen Donovan Carman and Family.
Barbara and Stan Gorlick
Jeff and Cheryl
We hit the jackpot to have you as friends and … neighbors! That time included precious moments with your dynamic , loving , mom. Such a joy … to see her warm, and fun interactions with her “great” “grand” daughter Marley. May God bless her and all that honor her and her life.
Gerald Smith
To Jeff and family:
I am very sorry for your loss upon hearing of your mother’s passing. You are in my prayers and may God be with you during this time.
Gerry Smith