Philip J. Kitten

Philip Joseph Kitten entered his Heavenly home on Friday, June 14, 2024. His family and friends are celebrating his life and legacy on Friday, June 21, 2024, at 2 p.m. at Turning Point Community Church. Prior to the service, there will be a visitation from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at Lake Ridge Chapel and Memorial Designers.
Philip was born on March 5, 1956, to Agnes and Alvin Kitten in Slaton, Texas. As the only brother to four sisters, Philip grew up with a deep appreciation for family and putting others first. His boyish smile lit up any room, a hallmark of his character that never faded.
Philip grew up in a family with deep roots in farming which fueled his passion for the west Texas landscape. He was raised on the Kitten Family Farm, never missing an opportunity to help his father with farming operations while eagerly absorbing every lesson handed down. As a child, Philip's father introduced him to his love of flying in a Super Cub, opening the door to fully experience the beauty of the vast land and open skies.
Philip took to flying as a natural, soloing by the age of sixteen and mastering the skills of crop dusting by the time he graduated from Wilson High School in 1974. By 1976, Philip built Kitten Flying Service just south of Slaton before moving his crop-dusting operation to the Slaton Airport in 2001.
Eight years later, Philip met the love of his life, Brendi and they married in 2013. In addition to being a dedicated husband, Philip was also a proud father to his two children, Courtney (1990) and Cameron (1993). Being with family was always his greatest joy, and he never missed an opportunity to share stories about his children along with his five grandchildren. He was undoubtedly the most faithful and biggest fan in youth sports, cheering the loudest whether it was basketball, baseball, or soccer. If the grandkids liked it, then Philip loved it!
Philip's 48 years of accomplishments as a skilled pilot are legendary, and his enthusiasm remains a constant source of inspiration to others. He led by example, encouraging many to take to the skies including family, friends, and even strangers who sought his wisdom. He cherished witnessing God's masterful work from his plane, watching over the land, loved ones, and the countless people he helped through his years.
A man of faith, Philip believed in the power of doing good, never missing the chance to better himself each day and leaving things better than he found them. It's a calling that he entrusts with each of us – to challenge ourselves to plant those seeds of goodness in every aspect of life, bring comfort like a gentle rain, nourish a soul, brighten a day, and be the wings that lift up others. Until we meet again, blue skies and tailwinds.
Philip is preceded in death by his mother Agnes Kitten and beloved son, Cameron Kitten, as well as nephew, Eric Savell, and nieces, Sarah and Rebekah Green.
He is survived by his treasured wife, Brendi Kitten, adored daughter, Courtney Noel Ellis (David), and loving father, Alvin Kitten. He was blessed with stepsons, Michael Parmenter and Matthew Fennimore (Shaley) along with grandchildren, Paten, Cross and Miles Fennimore and Vivienne and Claire Parmenter and sisters, Marsha Savell (Dan), Donna Fields (John), Joan McClesky (Bill), and Brenda Green. Philip also has seven nieces/nephews and eight great nieces and nephews.
A gentle spirit, Philip also loved his fur babies, Piper Dawn, Paisley Rae, and Luna Bea.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to everyone for their prayers and support during this difficult time. After the church service on Friday, there will be a graveside gathering at the Slaton Cemetery where a Missing Man formation will be led by Brandon Cottingham, Danak Spradlin, Jacob Henson, and Jake Williams.
In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested that a memorial donation be sent to Raider Aviation to encourage and fund aspiring pilots.
Raider Aviation, LLC
12106 FM 400, Hanger 19
Slaton, Texas 79364
www.raider-aviation.com
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