Mrs. Opal Nadine Kittrell's Obituary
Opal Nadine Kittrell of Nashville, Tennessee, passed away on Tuesday, July 27, 2021. Born August 2, 1929, in Gallatin, Tennessee, she was the daughter of the late Oscar and Minnie Gregory. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Thomas Kittrell, son Gary Bowling, and sister Irene Archer.
Opal was an entrepreneur at heart. When she managed the lunch counter at Sears on Lafayette St. in Nashville, she knew she wanted to open her own restaurant. Serving others through good, home-cooked food was her passion. She owned several restaurants throughout her life, but the hallmark of her career was the Knife & Fork Restaurant in East Nashville she operated for over 25 years. Every day she looked forward to the comradery she shared with her customers and employees.
Her zest for life was an inspiration. She was always “ready to go” and usually dressed to the nines – especially when meeting a special group of ladies known affectionately as the Black Widows or going dancing at the American Legion (Post 82) where she was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary. Opal was a very outgoing individual who could strike up a conversation with anyone, and often loved to end the conversation by telling one of her favorite jokes. Her personality shined through in her smile and her laughter.
She enjoyed many hobbies over the years including roller skating (her nickname was “Jeep”), camping, waterskiing (even into her 70’s no less), painting, playing cards, and of course, gardening. She loved to be outside working in the yard and tending to her favorite flowers – roses and sunflowers. Nothing brought her greater joy, though, than spending time with her family.
Opal was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She will be deeply missed by her daughter Michelle Bobbitt, son-in-law Stan Bobbitt, grandson Austin Bobbitt, sister Ruby Vick and her extended family and friends.
The family invites you to attend her Celebration of Life Funeral Service on Saturday, August 14 at 2:00 p.m. with visitation occurring from noon until 2:00 p.m. In honor of Opal and her love of flowers, her family asks you to come to the service wearing your favorite summer colors. The service will be officiated by Reverend Krislyn Durham of First United Methodist Church Murfreesboro and Reverend Laurie Raulston of Normandy United Methodist Church. Burial will follow in the Historic Spring Hill Cemetery.
Masks will be required inside the funeral home during the visitation and funeral. Social distancing will be observed as well.
Arrangements entrusted to Spring Hill Funeral Home & Cemetery, 5110 Gallatin Road, Nashville, TN 37216. “Where Nashville Comes to Remember.”
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