Remembrance of the Life of Alice Kitchen CoL
Posted on November 14, 2025, by Loretto Community
Aug. 23, 1942 – Nov. 14, 2025
Loretto Co-member Alice Kitchen died Nov. 14, 2025, at St. Luke’s Hospice House in Kansas City, Mo. Loretto members had been able to visit with her before her death, and family were with her when she died. Alice was 83 and a Loretto Co-member since 2004.
Reflecting the depth and breadth of her impact on her home community in Kansas City, Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas released a statement, part of which follows: “In recent years, Alice may be known best for her strong work for gender equity, but her efforts include almost any issue that could help people in our community succeed: gun violence reduction; low-barrier shelter for the unhoused; and human rights here in Kansas City and anywhere in the world. She held us accountable as elected officials and community leaders, nudging us respectfully, but regularly in areas we needed to do better. She was usually right.” (Lucas’s full statement may be found here. The remembrance was shared by local NBC affiliate KSHB in Kansas City.)
Alice cared little for titles or, apparently, even pay for her efforts. Throughout her life, she stood up for those who struggle, tirelessly working on their behalf, inspiring others to create change.
A public memorial service celebrating the life and legacy of Alice took place Jan. 17, at the Spencer Theatre (KC Rep) on the campus of the University of Missouri-Kansas City and was broadcast over Zoom.
She was predeceased by her parents, Norbert Laughlin and Johanna Laughlin; her husband Ronald Kitchen; and her brothers, Dave Laughlin and Patrick Laughlin. Alice is survived by her sister Julie Effertz. She is also survived by her many nieces and nephews, and a multitude of dear friends.
Please keep Alice, her family and all her loved ones in your prayers. May she rest in peace.
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I remember Alice as a fearless advocate for children.
She made a difference in the lives of numerous people.
She will be missed.
I remember Alice from CMH. She was an amazing woman who lived her values. I was also touched by the Loretto Community. A life well lived.
Yes, my Aunt Alice was a force and a light in the world. Thank you all for your love and support with her transition.
I always admired Alice. She was steadfast in her fight for justice. Thank you Jesus for allowing me to know Alice. She enhanced me.
Alice gave me wind beneath my sails during my final months with the city. I didn’t have a chance to tell her that, but I like to think she knew.
I first met Alice in 1975 at Project Redirection. Our paths crossed many times in the ensuing 50 years. She was my supervisor, my coworker, my mentor and most of all, my friend. Alice made a difference in our community. She will be missed. Rest in peace, Alice.
I had the honor of working with Alice at Children’s Mercy. She had a strong moral compass and never wavered from it. Sending my condolences to her family. May she rest in peace.
I was fortunate to have the opportunity to serve with Alice on the KCPT Advisory Board, where her compassion and tenacious spirit was forever on display. She was indeed a fighter for justice and for equality. Alice, you will be missed. Blessings and peace to all who knew and loved you!
So sad to hear of Alice Kitchen’s passing. I knew her from my first job at City Hall. I was 16. Smart and feisty!! She will be missed for sure.
I was Alice’s Administrative Assistant at Children’s Mercy and was always amazed at the things she accomplished! She didn’t ever give up when there was something that needed to be done, especially for children!!!