It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Robert J. Kite, on Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2024. He was a beloved member of the DeRidder community who lived a life full of dedication and service. Born on Feb. 21, 1934, he was a true DeRidder native who graduated from DeRidder High School before pursuing a Business degree at Louisiana College in Pineville.

After proudly serving in the Army in Indianapolis, Ind., Robert returned to his hometown and opened Kite Brothers LLC real estate investments in 1961. His contributions extended beyond his professional endeavors, as he was not only a respected member of the Rotary Club but also served on the Board of Directors at the First National Bank of DeRidder.

A passionate individual, Robert was a pillar of the community he loved, always ready to lend a helping hand or offer a kind word to those in need. His impact on the lives of those around him will be remembered and cherished for years to come.

Those left to cherish his memory are his sister, Dianne Penney and her husband, Paul of DeRidder, La.; nieces and exceptional caregivers, Cynthia Hall and Pamela Penton; grandchildren, Heath Kite, Konner Kite, Ali Kite; great-grandchildren, Kael Kite, Alana Kite, Aliliah Kite; sister-in-law, Winkie Kite Branch, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his son, Alan Kite; parents, George Kite and Eleanor Kite; brothers, Joe and Ela Kite, Wayne and Gail Kite, Kenneth Kite.

A funeral service to celebrate Robert’s life will be held at Myers Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. on Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024, at 11 a.m. Prior to this, there will be a public viewing at the funeral home starting at 9 a.m. on the same day. Robert’s nephew, Chaplin Bruce Kite and Brother George Lee Glass will officiate the service. Honorary pallbearers will be the FNB Board of Directors, Barbara Andrepont, Robert Bennett, Novy Glass, John Nichols, and Edward O’Neal. Join us as we gather to honor and remember the remarkable life of Robert J. Kite.