Mary Ellen Kitzes, 76

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Mary Ellen Kitzes, of Providence, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2023, at her residence surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved and devoted wife of Dr. David L. Kitzes. Their three children, Sydney, Benjamin and Madeline, were extremely privileged to grow up under her wing.

Born in Scottsburg, Indiana, to Robert and Elizabeth (Gardner) Richey, she was the elder sister to two siblings, Linda and Bryan.

After earning a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Indiana University, she worked as an RN at the VA Hospital in Indianapolis. This is where she met the cardiology fellow who would live by her side for 56 years.

After moving to Providence, she fulfilled her lifelong dream of becoming an architect when she earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts and a master’s degree in architecture from the Rhode Island School of Design. Her love of art, architecture and history of same is something that she shared passionately with her children when carting them from museum to museum at various locations around the world.

As a member and former co-president of The Miriam Hospital Women’s Association, she stayed involved with the hospital for many years and received an honor for her distinguished service. An avid golfer, Mary was also a member of the Hole in One club.

Mary enriched the lives of everyone she met and was widely loved and appreciated for her generous and caring spirit, her wit and her open heart. She is survived by her family and friends who will carry her legacy for all their lives.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284-9168