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Tobias Funeral Home - Far Hills Chapel

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Dayton, Ohio

Betsy B. Kitch Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jan. 16, 2014.

KITCH, Betsy B., born January 22, 1932, Betsy Ann Byrns Kitch grew up in Griggsville, Illinois. After graduating from Griggsville High School, she attended the University of Illinois, receiving her Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology in 1955. In 1984 she completed her Master of Arts Degree in Pastoral Ministries at the University of Dayton. Betsy was an active member of Zeta Tau Alpha, an Associate of the Community of St. Mary(Anglican) and a long time member and lay minister of Christ Church(Episcopal) in Xenia, Ohio. Betsy passed away on January 13, 2014. An exceptional wife and mother, she is remembered as a Spiritual Director, retreat leader, teacher, poet, artist, gardener-and abiding friend. Betsy is survived by her husband Jack, of 58 years, and their children: son David Kitch and spouse Sarah, son William Kitch and spouse Elizabeth, daughter Anne Kitch and spouse James Peck, and grandchildren Rachel, Nathan, Sophie and Lucy. In lieu of flowers, memorials should be sent to Christ Church 68 E. Church St. Xenia, OH 45385 or the Community of the Transfiguration 495 Albion Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45246. The family will be receiving visitors from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM, Friday February 7, 2014 in the Grand Room at Bethany Village 6443 Bethany Village Dr., Dayton, Ohio. The memorial service will be held 10:30 AM Saturday, February 8, 2014 at the Christ Church(Episcopal), in Xenia. Arrangements are being completed by the TOBIAS FUNERAL HOME-Far Hills Chapel

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February 10, 2015

Marty Cottrill

Family and Friends of Betsy,

We continue to give thanks for Betsy's life. For a couple of years, my husband Dave and I had been planning to move to Bethany Village, as Jack and Betsy had done. We had been shown a model unit late in 2013. As we left there, we waved to Jack and Betsy, who were just pulling out of their nearby driveway. Several months after Betsy's death, when we were evaluating the various floor plans, we were shown the home that had belonged to Jack and Betsy. They had invested a lot of tender, loving care in it (and, as Jack would observe, hard cash as well) and had made positive additions that were very appealing. We wish that they had had a much longer time to enjoy those investments. But in making those investments, Jack and Betsy contributed to a community beyond themselves, as they did at many other points in life.

Last September, Dave and I moved into the home on Palmetto Court that had belonged to Betsy and Jack. It feels like sacred space. Betsy was my spiritual director for a few years in the 1990s, and Dave and I both served on Cursillo teams with her. I appreciated sharing those times with her. Because of my husband's changing ministry opportunities, our focus moved to Cincinnati for several years, and we lost touch with many Dayton area friends at that point. But Betsy's poem "Waiting and Praying" is near my laptop, and her photo (with me and author Madeleine L'Engle at a Kanuga retreat) is on our refrigerator.

I know that legions of people have known and loved Betsy. Please know that this home is a place where her love and legacy lives on. I'll never match her hospitable presence, but it remains my goal!

Marty Cottrill

February 10, 2015

Marty Cottrill

Family and friends of Betsy,

We had a long-term plan to move into Bethany Village, as Betsy & Jack had done. Last spring we began looking seriously at the various floor plans offered at Bethany. Months earlier, we had been shown a model unit there. As we left there, Jack & Betsy had been pulling out of their driveway. As it turned out, the home the Kitches had lived in at 6558 Palmetto was one of the housing units shown to us late in the spring. Jack and Betsy had made many practical, appealing additions to the home, and we are sorry that they didn't have more years there. But this home had a great appeal for us because of its size, the Kitch additions, and our positive connections with the Kitches over the years (especially in the 1990s).

In September we moved to Bethany Village, where we live in the home that Betsy and Jack had shared. It feels like sacred space, and we appreciate that. Betsy was my spiritual director for several years, and Dave and I both worked with her in Cursillo. Betsy's poem "Waiting and Praying" is beside my laptop. A picture of Betsy and me with author Madeleine L'Engle is on our refrigerator.

We know Betsy was known and loved by many. But this home is definitely one of the many places where Betsy's love and legacy live on.

February 7, 2014

the Johnson-Tanners, w/ Doris Tanner

Our prayers & good thoughts go with the Kitch family as you mourn and celebrate Betsy's full and rich life. I loved to hear of her curiousity, her creative responses to communicate her love of the Lord, and very real love of his people. Her heart seemed always open - to listen, to come along side in support, to offer prayer, laughter, a roof over one's head. I will remember Betsy as a genuine lover of souls, an authentic believer and true servant of Christ Jesus.

February 6, 2014

John and Louise Bower

Continuing to pray for all of you as these days go by till we at last celebrate Betsy's life and lay her to rest. We are watching the weather closely and praying it doesn't interfere with our sharing this day with all of you.

Blessings and much love and prayer,

February 5, 2014

Jody & Devin Bader

We wish we had had more opportunities to know Betsy and learn from her, but we look forward to seeing her again in the presence of our Lord! Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May the Lord's peace reign.

February 1, 2014

Ron Pollock

I am so sorry to learn of your loss. You can count on our continued thoughts and prayers for the entire family. May your mother rest in peace and rise in glory !
You are a joy and a delight !
In Christ,
Fr. Ron Pollock

January 31, 2014

Jennifer Ross

My heart goes out to all of you who have shared this splendid woman's love. The joy within these photos mirrors who you are as a family, just as her life reflects her joy in God, family and friends. While it is never easy to say goodbye to those we hold tenderly in our hearts, I know Betsy's memorial service will reflect the happiness and love she and Jack continued to grow throughout their marriage and extended to each of their children and on to their grandchildren. I have the honor of knowing Anne and have heard a few tales over a handful of years that brought smiles to her face and laughter to share and light dancing in her eyes. That spirit is love of family, and that is one of the treasures that will be brought forth at the service and will remain a part of each of you blessed to have shared precious time and love from Betsy. May it and our loving God hold you all gently: Love is a circle complete.

January 28, 2014

Sue Blough

I know most about Betsy's gritty faith and goodness through David and Sarah, but on the occasions I met her she had the aura of one who has allowed the Holy Spirit to work deeply in her life...while keeping a sense of humor. May that same Spirit comfort her family and friends.

January 27, 2014

Nancy & Michael Shalkey

I think the word I would most like to describe Betsy is 'delightful'. She knew who she was and Whose she was, and communicated a great sense of joy to all who came in contact with her. And she was so wise and warm - a real blessing. We'll always remember her with thanksgiving to the Lord.

January 27, 2014

Dear David, Sarah and family, it is so sad to hear of your great loss. She was filled with such vitality, love and kindness. My memory of her makes me feel so very blessed to have met her. You all stay in my prayers always,
Sharie Hall

January 27, 2014

Allison

Although I have not made your acquaintance, Jack, I know and love your son David and his wife Sarah from our seminary in Claremont, CA. Given both David and Sarah's generous, loving hearts, it is clear that you have been an inspiration and source of the same affections. I am sorry for your loss at this time and want you to know our prayers in the seminary community are with you. Peace and love, Allison Cornell (Bloy House Seminary, Claremont CA)

January 27, 2014

Alison Whismore

In 1990, on the road and in my first year in Covenant Players, my road managers told me we would have the privilege of spending Easter with Betsy and Jack Kitch. What I've remembered most about that Easter all these years was how Betsy lavished upon us her hospitality (no holds barred), served us one of the most amazing roast legs of lamb I ever ate. That was my first Easter in the United States, and it has always stayed with me. You both welcomed me, a stranger into your home. You fed me to overflowing, you gave me something to drink (I'm sure it wasn't just water) and a bed, and as Jesus said "Whatever you have done to the least of these, you have done for me." "Well done, good and faithful servant." She will obviously be missed by so many. Alison Whismore

January 26, 2014

Karen Christie

Hi Jack, I'm glad you are on the mend! Though it was so long ago that I often stayed with you and Betsy, her inspiration in my life has been lasting. She demonstrated qualities I have sought to adopt, ways of living that were appealing, that I've shared with others. I am so glad to have known her. I picture the small narrow bed in her study and the books and desk, everything so cosy and inviting, a neat little get away. I knew you and Betsy would always give me total acceptance and encouragement and I always left refreshed ready for more mission. May God keep you through this time.

January 26, 2014

Jim, Liz, Justin, Ben, Nicole, Wyatt and Logan Jolliffe

How lucky are we to have crossed paths in life. Betsy and Jack touched our lives with love, friendship, and kindness. Betsy was full of knowledge and creativity that she freely and caringly shared with us all. She will be missed here but heaven gained a most wonderful angel. God's blessings and peace to Jack and your family. God bless and keep you. RIP dear lady!

January 25, 2014

Dear Jack, I never had the opportunity to stay with you wonderful Kitches, but have heard so much about you both. My heartfelt sorrow to you on Betsy's passing. May God richly bless your everyday with Himself and His presence. Donna McKibben

January 25, 2014

Steven Newman

It is with great sorrow to learn of Betsy's passing. We were last together 20 years ago when my father Ralph had an auction in Ohio. He and Betsy were good friends and cousins, both growing up in Griggsville.

January 24, 2014

John and Louise Bower

Our love and prayers are with all the Kitches and Kitch-Pecks. Our connections to you all go back many years to time at the Convent of the Transfiguration, a shared week at Peterkin, and many wonderful visits to "Kastle Kitch" in Centerville. We are grateful for Jack and Betsy's friendship through these 30-some years now. We've shared Swedish crystal patterns, days on the beach in Florida, many a museum crawl, and always the fun of Betsy's storytelling, Jack's droll remarks, and Betsy's incredible fun of knowledge that helped us never to forget that she was first, by original training, a scientist.

[From Louise] Betsy's best gift to me was a course in journaling I took from her in the early 80's. What I learned in that course has enriched my life ever since.

May God be with all of you in the days and weeks and months to come as you live into the reality of this loss - her gain.

January 24, 2014

Keith Yamamoto

Pleae know that you are in the thoughts and prayers of the people of St. Mark's.

January 23, 2014

Tina Pinczes

I was heartbroken to hear of the accident and Betsy's passing. She was a sweet lady and I will miss her. I hope your memories of her will get you through this difficult time. Tina (CRNA at DIR)

January 23, 2014

Teresa Ely

One of the best parts of being friends with David & Sarah Kitch - meeting David's mom, Betsy. Moments spent with Betsy were rich in wisdom, humor, and the Spirit of God. May God's tender mercies mend your broken hearts.

January 23, 2014

So many memories of the wonderful Betsy Kitch from Christmas over 20 years ago at Pam and Wicks Stephens in California with Mike's Mum, Lorimer and sister Leisa, another Christmas 17 years ago at Jack and Betsy's home, with very small Emma and Sarah - Betsy's patience with our young family was amazing and then the huge blessing of having Jack and Betsy at Sarah's high School graduation. But whether she was physically present with us, we always knew of her prayers and love. We think of Jack and the family and pray for God's very real presence and comfort at this time.

January 23, 2014

Francie and I continue to uphold you and yours in prayer.
Much love,
Marc Britt and Francie Hills

January 23, 2014

Beth Mayer

Betsy holds a special place in my heart, what a wonderful lady. May you all find peace and joy in her life's story

January 23, 2014

Leanne Puglielli

We had such fun working on Cursillo together. Betsy will always occuoy a warm place in my heart

January 22, 2014

Sue Wren

Thoughts and prayers are with the Kitch family...great mrmories of Betsy's warmth, humor and vivid conversations. Hoping for God's comfort to embrace you.

January 22, 2014

Bob Hern

My prayers are with you all.

January 22, 2014

Dale and Pat Spotten

Prayers and our love to family and friends.

January 22, 2014

Gary and Wendi Barcus

We have very fond memories of Betsy and Jack, and send you our prayers of peace and that you will find comfort in all your friends and family at this time. Again to the whole Kitch family we send our love.

January 22, 2014

Jack, Anne, Bill, David, and all your extended family: we mourn with you. I have no words that will help, but I thank God we have a Consoler who is able to comfort in ways inexpressible and yet so real. We are the richer for knowing your family; and are grateful for having known you and Betsy, Jack. God keep you. Joe and Nance Friedman (Austin, TX)

January 22, 2014

Wes, Julee, Simon, Jacob, Peter, and Caleb Whatley

It was a joy to have known Betsy and a lifelong blessing to have served with her son and daughter-in-law David and Sarah. May The Lord comfort those who mourn.

January 22, 2014

Elijah&Andrea Adeyanju

We pray for God's grace, peace and strength for Jack, David and the rest of the family as you all go through this difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Much love, The Adeyanjus.

January 22, 2014

Dawn Ingram

I talked with Betsy several times during your visits to see David and Sarah. She was a gracious, intelligent woman who listened with her heart and her mind. I'm sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my prayers.

January 22, 2014

Jan McGinnis

My memories of Betsy are few but rich, including times of staying with her and Jack during Covenant Players' tours, and her visit to our training in California many years ago. I've always held her to be a wise woman - one who listens to and trusts in the Lord, and is willing to speak into the lives of others. I've always looked forward to the times I've seen her, and have been blessed. She will be missed by many, including me.

January 22, 2014

Wendy Aird

I heard this news with great sadness. I never met Betsy, but we had been in touch through FB and our mutual family tree, as I discovered Betsy was a distant cousin of mine. My sympathy to Jack and all her family.

January 21, 2014

Larry and Peg Smith

It is with great sorrow to learn of Betsy's passing. Betsy was such a thoughtful and generous friend and neighbor. Betsy and Jack's thoughtfulness was first shown to us when we moved next door to them and they held an Open House for us to meet our new neighbors. This and many other thoughtful things she and Jack have done over the years will be treasured forever. Our deepest sympathy to Jack and the family.

January 21, 2014

Rick Lewis

I am so saddened to hear of Betsy' passing. She was a delightful person and I'm so glad that I got to know her through her time and artwork at Hithergreen Center. My condolences and prayers to her family.

January 20, 2014

Virginia and Bob Carmichael

We were so sorry to hear of Betsy's passing. We saw she and Jack often when they came to Florida and spent time with them at their condo several times with fond memories. We were so pleased to see them at her high school class reunion last October. Thankfully, Bob still knew her. We have such fond memories of Betsy from high school to now. Such a lovely lady. Our best to Jack for a fast recovery.

January 19, 2014

Barb Stork

I am deeply saddened by the news of Betsy and Jack but sure they are in a place of Peace. Our whole art class will
miss the lovely presence of Betsy. We were blessed to know her. I am certain her life will continue to inspire all of us.

January 19, 2014

Carolyn Greene

Mine are the memories of a teenager in the early 70's ... And of a lovely evening in a home full of life, music & family. My thoughts are with you.

January 19, 2014

Pamela Shaw Spearow

In high school Mrs. Kitch always seemed to have her home open to Bill's friends. I was lucky to be among those friends. She always made us feel welcome! My sincerest condolences to the family.

January 19, 2014

Peggy Haun

January 18, 2014

Sophie Kitch-Peck

She was such a loving and caring role model to have. I will always love her and even though I feel like my time with her was cut short, I will cherish every moment I spent with her.

January 18, 2014

Ruth Carter

I met Betsy and Jack just once--I was one in a constant stream of CPers stopping by their house on our way to LA. Your mom was such a gracious lady, allowing so many strangers into her home. I lot my mom a few years ago, and I understand the complexity of the barrage of feelings. Grief comes deepest when the love is richest. But celebration, too, because hallelujah, Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine, O what a foretaste of glory divine. What wondrous love is this!

January 18, 2014

Marty and Dave Cottrill

Our prayers are offered in thanksgiving for Betsy's "wide and deep" life and her way of being so fully present to others, as well as for Jack's healing and care. We met Bill and Elizabeth first, sharing a table with them at a Berchtesgaden, Germany, family conference in the 1980s, courtesy of the Air Force. But Betsy and I shared a connection with the Community of the Transfiguration (where Betsy led retreats), a love of Madeleine L'Engle's writing, and a years-long spiritual direction relationship as well. Both Dave and I served with her in Cursillo, appreciated her prayerful presence, and enjoyed the Kitches' hospitality. Your family remains in our prayers as you mourn your loss while celebrating Betsy's full, caring life.

January 18, 2014

The Rev. Laura Howell

Prayers for Betsy, now rejoicing in the presence of our Good God. And prayers for all those who mourn, especially her husband and children. Blessings on you all in this sorrowful time.

January 18, 2014

Barbara Harris

Deepest sympathy on the loss of your mother. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. The Harris and Castellanos families.

January 18, 2014

Betsy had such a love and interest in others, such wise words for those who were struggling, and great wit and humor! We are so sorry that she has left us, so confident of her place in eternity, so sad that we didn't get to say goodbye. Love and prayers to Jack, Bill, David and Anne, and their families. Nance Friedman

January 18, 2014

Tracy (Curtright) Reinhard

I was so sad to hear of Betsy's passing. My parents were friends with Betsy and Jack in Colorado Springs in the 60's. I have kept in contact with them over the years. It was a blessing to know her. Praying for Jack and the rest of the family.

January 17, 2014

Gerald Witt

Our prayers for Jack and the family from 13 January 2014 to 13 January 2015, know each day someone remembers, loves and shares your loss...In Jesus Love, Gerald and Dolores+

January 17, 2014

Betsy was a wonderful neighbor. She added a lot to the prayer group on
Autumn Wind Ct. I am so glad I knew her.
Amy Bartz

January 17, 2014

Greg Trefz

I was deeply saddened when I heard the news of Betsy's passing. What an extraordinary rich life she has lived. I am blessed to have known her. I picture her now dancing on the streets of gold with messiah Jesus.

January 17, 2014

Cyndamarie

My heart is saddened and heavy with the passing of Betsy. Jack my prayers are with you, You are in my thoughts daily. RIP Betsy.

January 17, 2014

Jenny Besecker

I am so honored to have known Betsy. She was a one of a kind, special person.

Zeta Love...

January 17, 2014

Pamela Feinour

My heart is heavy with sadness for a wonderful friend and mentor. We all will miss her terribly. My heartfelt condolences go to Jack and his family and we are all here to support you in any way we can...God's love.

January 17, 2014

Virginia and Ed Rouffy

For nearly five decades our relationship has been significant from the time we met in Cripple Creek, Colorado, to the present which included numerous times visiting together in Colorado Springs, Westcliffe, Salida, and trips together to the mountains in Colorado; Fairborn, Centerville, Xenia, Dayton, Yellow Springs, and Ohio countryside. Times of extra special significance include you being godmother to our son Stephen and tracking with him from his baptism to marriage and beyond. To share ideas about life and faith and to grow in God's life for us meant more than words can express. The love we shared will continue as memories and hope press us onward in eternal life. We love you!

January 16, 2014

I have know Betsy for over 25 years through Cursillo and other Diocesan events. What a woman! Although I've not seen her often in recent years, she will remain forever in my memory.
Prayers for the family and all whom she loved and all who loved her.
Debbie Gamble+

January 16, 2014

Nadine Grady

Jim and I are so sorry to hear of Betsy's death. We have many fond memories of her and Jack from the years we were all active in the Southern Ohio Episcopal Cursillo. Our prayers and condolences go out to her family, as well as our prayers for Jack's recovery.

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