Elaine Richard Kittner, born October 23, 1959, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026, in Houston, Texas. A woman of unwavering faith and steadfast dedication, Elaine was a cherished member of Val Verde Baptist Church in Groves, Texas, where her spirit and kindness touched the lives of many.
Elaine devoted six years of her life in Housekeeping at Delta Downs Casino, demonstrating a tireless work ethic to support her beloved family. Beyond her professional life, she was a vibrant soul who loved to bring joy to those around her. Renowned for her infectious laughter and the ability to light up any gathering, Elaine was truly the life of the party, even if she never fully realized the delight she brought to others.
Music was near and dear to her heart, with The Beatles and ZZ Top providing the soundtrack to many cherished moments. She found particular joy in attending performances of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra alongside her daughter Salina, creating memories woven with melody and love. Her passion for family was evident in the simple pleasures she enjoyed, such as gardening with her daughter Tara and spending treasured time with her grandchildren, whose lives she enriched deeply.
Elaine’s legacy is carried forward by her devoted children, her daughter, Salina Hancock and her husband, Clinton; son, Jesse Kyle Faircloth; daughter, Donna Dynell Arnold, daughter, Tara Rachelle Kimball and her husband, Murry, and daughter, Katrina Jones and her husband, Blake. She was a proud grandmother to fourteen grandchildren and a loving great-grandmother to six great-grandchildren. Elaine also shared a close and warm bond with her sister, Renee Richard Cross, and her husband, Adam, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family who were blessed by her presence.
She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Doran Joseph Richard and Geneva Lee Bozeman Richard, her cherished husband of 31 years, Jerry W. Kittner, her brother, Dale Richard, and her sister, Darlene Combs.
Family and friends will gather to honor Elaine’s memory beginning with a visitation at Val Verde Baptist Church, 3900 Cleveland Avenue, Groves, TX 77619, on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m. The funeral service celebrating her life will immediately follow at 1:00 p.m. The day’s commemoration will close with interment at Oak Bluff Memorial Park, located at 618 Block Street, Port Neches, TX 77651.
Elaine Richard Kittner’s life was one of hard work, faith, laughter, and love. Her enduring spirit and the happiness she shared remain an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew her. She will be remembered fondly as a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, one who made the world a brighter place.