Raymond "Ray" Pressley Kittles, 85, of Greenwood, widower of Louise Rodgers Kittles, passed away Friday, November 7, 2025 at Hospice and Palliative Care of the Piedmont.
Born on July 31, 1940, in Dalton, GA, he was the son of the late William Melvin Kittles and Emma Frances Oldham Kittles. Ray was a devoted public servant, decorated veteran, and cherished community member. He leaves behind a legacy of dedication to law enforcement, military service, and fraternal leadership. Ray proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Army during the Vietnam Era from 1958 to 1964, achieving the rank of Private First Class (E-3) and embodying the values of duty and sacrifice for his country.
His commitment to service continued throughout this civilian career in law enforcement and transportation regulation. His distinguished career in public safety began as a police officer in Mulberry, FL, where he ultimately rose to the position of Chief of Police. Following he continued to serve the Greenwood City as a police officer and later retired as an inspector with the Public Service Commission Transportation Division.
Ray was highly active and respected leader within numerous fraternal and veteran organizations. He was a 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason; served as the Past Commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW); Past Chaplain of the Marine Corps League; Past Commander of the Disabled Veterans of America (DVA); and dedicated member of the American Legion Post 20. He was a man of faith and member of the Christ of Christ, which was held in his home.
He is survived by his children, Donna Garber (George Harper), William John "Bill" Kittles (Melanie), Dale Kittles (Susan); grandchildren, Michael Edwards (Jennie), Jason Swancey, Brantley Kittles and Chase Kittles; and five great grandchildren.
In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by a son-in-law, Vic Garber; sister, Sondra Moates; and granddaughter, Lauren Kittles.
Graveside services, with military honors, will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday at Oakbrook Memorial Park with Mr. Phil Lucas officiating.