Lt. Lewis W. Kitts of Jamestown Dies at 73
Monday, December 25, 2023
Lt. Lewis W. Kitts, age 73 of Jamestown, known affectionately as “Lew,” passed away on Friday, December 22, 2023 after a lifetime devoted to serving his community through the Jamestown Fire Department. His journey with the department spanned over four decades, leaving an indelible mark on both the firefighting profession and the Jamestown School System.
Lew leaves behind his beloved Judith “Judy” Hareld, whom he absolutely cherished. Born in Philadelphia, PA, he was the son of the late William F. and Ethel (Dittlebach) Kitts. Lew was the father of Daniel S. Kitts, Sara Beth Kitts, and the late William F. Kitts; grandfather of Aiden and Gabriel; brother of Ethel Botelho; and step-brother of the late Henry Claytor.
Lew began his firefighting career in August 1971, joining the Jamestown Fire Department as a trainee member. Within a year, he was appointed a Firefighter and assigned to Engine 3 in August 1972. However, a change in his personal employment which resulted in a night shift position at Brown and Sharpe Corp., along with family commitments, led him to take a hiatus from active duty from 1980 until 1992. True to his character, Lew believed in wholehearted commitment, and if he couldn't be 100% dedicated, he chose not to remain an active member during that period. Lew was employed as a Master Machinist with Brown and Sharp Corp. for 17 years.
In 1992, with the same determination and commitment that defined his character, Lew returned to active duty as a Firefighter on Engine 2. Simultaneously, he assumed the role of Superintendent of Buildings and Grounds for the Jamestown School System. Throughout his tenure, he actively engaged in various department projects and programs, embodying the spirit of service.
Lew's impact extended beyond the fire service. Hired as the Superintendent of Buildings and Grounds for the Jamestown School System in May 1991, he dedicated 25 years to the role, retiring on September 9, 2016. In his retirement letter, Lew expressed the profound connection he felt to the schools, stating, "My mission, every day, has been to provide a safe, clean, comfortable learning environment that the children, teachers, and community of Jamestown can be proud of. I have always done my very best to be mindful of resources, and to conserve and save, to give the taxpayers the best value I could."
His commitment to leadership was evident as he served as the Lieutenant of Engine 2 from 1994 to 2001, contributing valuable insights to the Board of Fire Wardens during that period. Recognizing the importance of mentorship, in 2001, Lew returned to duty as a Firefighter on Engine 2, mentoring the next generation of officers. In 2005, he transferred back to Engine 3, where he remained a dedicated firefighter until his passing.
Lew's contributions extended beyond his operational duties. He was the main organizer of the Departments annual Santa Claus ride around Town in December each year visiting all the residents, driving his antique Fire Engine with Santa. In 2003 Lew made it his mission to raise funds and purchase all dress uniforms for all the members, a program he spearheaded. He served on various Committees including the Building Committee, Memorial Museum Committee and the Chandler Memorial Trust Committee, always helping and assisting wherever he could. Lew was instrumental in many projects around the station, frequently cleaning floors, painting and handling maintenance issues. He spent countless hours being the lead organizer for JFD's participation in the Memorial Day Parade, the Newport St. Patrick's Day Parade and countless other social events. Lew’s hands-on approach to station maintenance and involvement in community events showcased his dedication. He was also an avid fan of the Boston Red Sox, and could often be seen wearing his favorite “Will Power” hat.
A highlight of Lew's career was his unparalleled commitment to answering calls. His outstanding service earned him the "Responder of the Year" award 15 times in the past 19 years—an extraordinary accomplishment that reflects his selflessness and dedication to keeping the community safe.
Reflecting on his life's work, Lew was more than a firefighter; he was a generous and caring individual who touched countless lives. A friend recently asked if there was anyone he hadn't helped, to which Lew humbly responded, "I hope not." His legacy, marked by love and effort every day, extends far beyond the Jamestown Fire Department, leaving an indelible mark on the community he served with unwavering dedication.
A visitation will be held on Friday, December 29, 2023, from 4-7 pm in the Fagan-Quinn Funeral Home, 825 Boston Neck Rd., North Kingstown. A Firefighter walk-through in full uniform will take place prior at 3:30 pm.
Relatives and friends are invited to a Requiem Eucharist Mass on Saturday, December 30, 2023 at 12 pm, Noon in St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, 87 Narragansett Ave., Jamestown. His burial will follow in Cedar Cemetery, Jamestown.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Lew’s memory may be made to the Jamestown Fire Department Memorial Museum, 50 Narragansett Ave., Jamestown, RI 02835.
