Lawrence Preston Kitchen

LAWRENCE PRESTON KITCHEN peacefully departed this life surrounded by the love of family and cherished memories on May 11, 2026. Born to the late Sandy and Annie Kitchen, Lawrence was the youngest son of a loving family of eleven children. From his early years, he carried a warm spirit, a generous heart, and a quiet strength that would touch so many throughout his life. Lawrence graduated from Frederick Douglass High School in 1966, where he met the love of his life, Carolyn Kitchen. Their beautiful union lasted more than 60 years, built on devotion, loyalty, laughter, friendship, and enduring love. Lawrence was also employed with Bethlehem Steel and Baltimore City for more than 45 years combined. He was a talented barber who took great pride in his craft. After being mentored in the art of barbering, he became well known and respected for his skills while cutting hair along Pennsylvania Avenue, at Bell Park Towers, and eventually from the comfort of his own home. To many, a visit with Lawrence was more than just a haircut it was an experience filled with soulful music, meaningful conversation, wisdom, laughter, and home cooked meals that made everyone feel welcome. Family and friendships meant everything to Lawrence. Whether it was a spontaneous fish fry, cooking on the grill, fishing trips with family and church members, hosting family socials, or simply gathering loved ones together, he found joy in creating memories. He lived by an open door policy and never hesitated to lend a listening ear, offer advice, give someone a ride or help however he could. His kindness and generosity became a cornerstone of the family and community he loved so deeply. Lawrence had a deep appreciation for music, especially gospel and jazz. His favorites included James Cleveland, and the beloved song “Peace Be Still,” along with artists such as Sam Cooke, Al Jarreau, Minnie Riperton, Aretha Franklin, Roberta Flack, Quincy Jones, Miles Davis, Wes Montgomery, George Benson, and EWF. Music filled his home and became the soundtrack to countless cherished moments. Lawrence also enjoyed westerns, dramas, and classic comedies that brought joy and laughter to those around him. He admired actors such as Sidney Poitier. His playful sense of humor and his famous phrase, in French “Parle-vous Francais” spoken in his own special way brought endless smiles and laughter to his children and grandchildren. Lawrence was preceded in death by his beloved son, Anthony P. Kitchen, who departed this life in May 2022. He leaves to cherish his precious memory: his devoted wife, Carolyn Kitchen; loving children, Michelle Scott and Kamile Kitchen; four adored granddaughters, Saniyah, Zion, Kassidy, and Ayana; daughter-in-law, Tonya Kitchen; brother, Milton Kitchen; sister, Loretta Brown; sister-inlaw, Barbara Freeman; brother-in-law, Marvin Dobson; a host of nieces, two nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were forever blessed by knowing him. Lawrence Preston Kitchen’s legacy will forever live on through the love he gave, the wisdom he shared, the laughter he inspired, and the family traditions he created. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will remain in every song played, every meal shared, every story told, and every gathering filled with love.

Tributes

Lawrence Preston Kitchen

August 12, 1947 - May 11, 2026