Emogene R. Kite, age 95, passed away peacefully in her home in Fairfax, Virginia on Saturday afternoon, January 10, 2026. Born on February 24, 1930, in Moorefield, West Virginia, she was a beloved daughter of the late Gilbert Robinette and Myrtle Grove Robinette. Her loving husband of 72 years, Paul Lenwood Kite, preceded her in death in 2023. Her brothers, Rocky (Glendon) Robinette and Bud (Howard) Robinette, and sisters, Sis (Mildred) Vetter, Arlene Boothe, and Eloise Ratliff also preceded her in death.
Emogene grew up in Moorefield, West Virginia and was a graduate of Moorefield High School, Class of 1947. Emogene and Paul met in high school and married in 1952 while Paul was serving in the Army.
Emogene immediately became a whole-hearted military wife. They lived, moved, and raised their family over 33 years in many communities throughout the United States and Germany including Occupied Berlin during the Cold War. Emogene’s commitment was unwavering to serve military families and communities wherever Paul was stationed.
Following Paul’s military retirement in 1983, Paul and Emogene settled in Fairfax, Virginia, where Emogene became an active member of the community. Emogene cherished her friends, neighbors, family, and community. More than anything, she is remembered as a people-person whose heart had room for everyone.
Both Emogene and Paul were dedicated members of St. George’s United Methodist Church in Fairfax. She relished her time with members of the Church, serving in the Church kitchen, and found joy helping with Meals on Wheels. She participated in church sewing groups – making heart pillows and quilts. She was active in Church Circle Groups, support groups and many other groups and activities affiliated with the Church and community.
Emogene loved her friends and family and treasured her Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren. She created many unforgettable memories hosting gatherings ln her home. We will never forget her famous apple pies, cookies, popcorn balls, flowers, needle work and quilts. She brightened her home and many other homes with quilts that reflected her talent and vibrant spirit. There was a continuous energy in her home from the many family, friends, children, and dogs that were in and out over the years. She always made room for friends, family, and all of their furry companions – inviting them all into her life. All of these enduring memories and adventures earned her the coveted name of “Nana.”
Emogene leaves behind her daughter, Debby (Norm) Boyd, and her son David (Julie) Kite. She is fondly missed by her four Grandchildren, Jeff (Laura) Tharp, Bryan (Anna-Marie) Tharp, Chad (Katy) Kite, and Chelsea (Todd) Scott. She leaves behind a host of great grandchildren – Fisher and Audrey Tharp, Emily and Sonny Tharp, Calvin and Casper Kite, and Eloise and Amelia Scott. Emogene will be missed by her Nieces, Nephews, and lots of additional family members.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Emogene’s life on Friday, January 23 at St. George’s United Methodist Church (4910 Ox Road, Fairfax, VA). The service will be at 11am and a Luncheon Reception will follow in St. George’s Fellowship Hall.
Interment will take place at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date where she will be laid to rest with Paul.
Flowers may be sent to St. George’s United Methodist Church (4910 Ox Road, Fairfax, VA) or donations may be made to the church in memory of Emogene. To offer condolences, share memories, or upload photos in honor of Emogene’s extraordinary life, visit her Tribute Wall at www.fraleyfuneralhome.com and celebrate the impact she made on all those around her. To offer condolences, share memories, or upload photos in honor of Emogene’s extraordinary life, visit her Tribute Wall at www.fraleyfuneralhome.com and celebrate the impact she made on all those around her.
