Kathleen F. Robert

Kathleen F. “Kathy” Robert, of Emporia, Kansas, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Newman Regional Health in Emporia. She was 83 years old.

Kathy was born on June 7, 1942, in Severy, Kansas, to Marvin and Alene Benest. On November 5, 1961, she married the love of her life, Larry Robert, in Pratt, Kansas. Together they built a life centered around faith, family, and community.

Kathy devoted much of her life to caring for others. She was first and foremost a homemaker and loving mother to her four children. Over the years, she also worked for Cockrell and Nab Optometrists in Emporia, Reeble’s Bakery, and lovingly cared for the Cates children, including the Cates triplets. She served on the Chase County School Board and was a longtime member of the Emporia First Church of the Nazarene.

Kathy is survived by her children: Troy and Kim Robert of Parkville, Missouri; Todd and Holly Robert of Olpe, Kansas; Thad and Tiffanie Robert of Emporia, Kansas; and Tara and Monte McConnaughy of Hutchinson, Kansas.

She is also survived by her grandchildren: Jayden and Robbie Martinez, Riley Robert, Isabel Littlejohn, Nick Littlejohn, Kynden Robert, Kadey Robert, Trenton Robert, Tanner and Nikita Robert, Toria Robert, Taban Robert, Tyler Robert, Tessa Robert, Mason McConnaughy, Asher McConnaughy, Garrett McConnaughy, and Ava McConnaughy; and by her great-grandchildren: Irene Robert, Landen Martinez, Waylon Robert, and Iris Robert.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Larry Robert; her parents; and her brother, Gary Benest.

Kathy will be remembered for her quiet strength, caring heart, deep love for her family, and the steady support she provided to those around her throughout her life.

Cremation is planned. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026, from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Saffordville Community Center.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Parkinson Disease Association in care of Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home, P.O. Box 175, Emporia, Kansas 66801.