Thomas Edward Kitzmiller

Thomas Edward Kitzmiller, age 84 of Laurinburg passed away on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.

He was born September 2, 1940 in Boone County, West Virginia, son of the late Howard Jennings Kitzmiller and the late Mary Margaret Robertson Kitzmiller. Thomas’s family relocated to Pulaski, VA in 1950 and then later to Greensboro, NC where he graduated as a football star from Grimsley High School and was recruited to play at Guilford College. It was there he was given the nickname “Speed Demon Tommy Kitzmiller”. He was a Veteran who proudly served his country in the United States Army.  He faithfully served as a member of Church in the Pines. Thomas worked in textiles before becoming a livestock manager in the pork processing industry retiring after many years with Smithfield Foods.  

Thomas was an avid bird hunter, especially dove, duck, and quail who also loved his time serving as a horseback birddog field trial judge for many years. His greatest joy came from the memories created and time spent with his family. Thomas will be greatly missed and remembered as a loving father, grandfather, and friend.

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his adored wife of 52 years, Annabel Ruth McKinnon Kitzmiller; brother, David Kitzmiller; and sisters, Doris Fazzio and Helen Haithcock.

Thomas is survived by sons, Christopher “Chris” Murray Kitzmiller, James “Jim’ Calvin Kitzmiller and wife, Celene; his adored grandchildren, Kathryn Anne Kitzmiller and Annabel Jane Kitzmiller; along with his loving extended family and friends.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at the Church in the Pines.    Visitation with family will be prior to services beginning at 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at the church.   Graveside committal service with military honors will follow the service in the McKinnon Family Cemetery.

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