Nora Rains Kitchens, 76, of Memphis, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2026, surrounded by her family.

She was born in Jonesboro, Arkansas, in 1949 to the late Woodrow Wilson Rains and Helen Gore Rains. Nora was preceded in death by her loving and devoted husband of 42 years, Thomas "Tom" Wilbur Kitchens, and her sister, Juanita Annette Rains Mann.

Left to cherish her memory are her son, Wayne Kitchens; her sister, Patricia Rains Walls; her granddaughter, Lauren Dey Anderson, and great granddaughter Karis Dey Vanelli. She is also lovingly remembered by many cousins, nieces, nephews, in-laws, and dear friends.

Nora was a graduate of Frayser High School and Louisiana State University. Not only was Nora a devoted homemaker and loving mother, but she also enjoyed a successful career, working at Baddour's, TG&Y, MILPAR, and the Memphis Group.

Although she often described herself as shy, she possessed a warm, outgoing wit and never met a stranger. Nora loved flying with Tom in their airplane, spending time with family and friends, taking ski trips to Colorado with the Kitchens family, sewing, working crossword puzzles, visiting the casino, and playing June's Journey on her iPad.

She was a compassionate and selfless caregiver, faithfully caring for her mother, Helen, her husband, Tom, and her sister-in-law, Jane as each battled cancer. In time, Nora faced that same disease with remarkable courage, grace, and resilience.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported Nora during her illness, including the many friends, family members, and neighbors who helped in countless ways. They offer special thanks to the exceptional physicians and staff at West Cancer Center and to the dedicated hospice team from Baptist Trinity. A heartfelt thank-you is extended to Nurse Leigh-Ann Parker, whose compassionate care, kindness, and support meant so much to Nora and her family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Nora's memory to the West Cancer Center & Research Institute Foundation @ westcancerfoundation.org.