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June 7, 1947 – September 30, 2023

East Lake, NC – Diana Lee Kitching Rippons, age 76, of East Lake, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on September 30, 2023. She was born on June 7, 1947, on Smith Island in Ewell, Maryland. Diana was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother who will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

Diana married Benjamin H. Rippons Sr., and they shared 58 beautiful years together. They created a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Together, they embarked on countless travels, cherishing each moment spent exploring new places. Diana’s love for hunting and working alongside her husband on the boat brought them even closer, as they shared their passions and built a life full of joy.

Family was everything to Diana, and she loved being surrounded by her loved ones. She was a devoted mother to her daughters, Lisa Saunders (Timmy) of East Lake and Betty Lou Daniels of Kill Devil Hills, as well as her son, Benjamin “Rip” Rippons Jr. (Sharon) of East Lake. Her love extended to her grandchildren, Tasha (Eric), Ben (Toni), Paige (Brandon), Sydney, Brittany, Benjamin, Riann, Grayson, Megan, and Ava, as well as her great-grandchildren, Catherine, Stephen, Ashlyn, Cayden, Allison, Ivy June, Payton, Kayelynn, Dylan, and Mia Diana. Their happiness meant the world to her, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

Diana was preceded in death by her parents, Seymour and Kitty Kitching; her sister, Robin Hooper; and her brother, Billy Kitching. She is survived by her brother, T.R. Kitching, and her special nieces and nephews, who affectionately called her Aunt Di.

Diana’s warm and caring nature made her a pillar of strength and support for her family and friends. She always put others before herself, finding joy in taking care of those around her. Diana had a wonderful sense of humor and loved sharing funny stories to keep the laughter alive. Her presence brought light and happiness to every gathering.

Services for Diana will be held at Twiford Colony Chapel. A viewing and visitation will take place on Sunday, October 8, 2023, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, October 9, 2023, at the funeral home. Following a private family committal service in the Rippons Family Cemetery, the family invites everyone to join them for a time of food and fellowship at the East Lake Community Building.

In memory of Diana, donations may be made to Amedisys Foundation, 3854 American Way Suite A, Baton Rouge, LA 70816. Her compassionate nature extended beyond her family, and she would be grateful for any contributions made to support hospice care.

Diana Lee Kitching Rippons will forever be remembered for her love, kindness, and unwavering devotion to her family. Her legacy of love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.

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