Rev. Arthur Stanley Kile, 101, of Franklin, known to many as Rev. Kile, went to his Heavenly Home Sept. 11, 2026, after a long and faithful life of Christian service, surrounded by the love of his family and the legacy of a ministry that touched countless lives.
He was born on June 12, 1925, in Kline and was the son of the late George Arthur Kile and Cleta Mae (Mallow) Kile.
Rev. Kile attended Schmucker School and continued his education through the United Methodist seminary, preparing himself for a lifetime of Christian leadership. His calling to ministry was evident in the way he lived each day, and he answered that calling with dedication, compassion, and steadfast faith. He spent more than 50 years in full-time ministry, pastoring numerous United Methodist churches and serving congregations with wisdom, kindness, and a sincere love for the Lord.
He worked for various construction companies and was a member of the West Virginia Laborers Union.
He was a member of Reeds Creek United Methodist Church and was a charter member of South Branch Ruritan Club in Upper Tract.
He loved music and sang with the Potomac Valley Men’s Choir. He enjoyed growing vegetables and tending his rose garden, and was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing and trapping.
Throughout his ministry, he was known for his gentle spirit and his ability to encourage others with words of hope and understanding. He led with patience and grace, and he approached his work with a humble heart.
The churches he served were strengthened by his leadership, and the lives he touched were enriched by his example. He was a mentor to a special family friend, Pastor Angela Cosner.
His earthly journey has ended, but the influence of his life and ministry will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His memory will be cherished by his family, friends, and all who were blessed by his presence. He leaves behind a legacy of devotion, service, and love that will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.
Family was central to his life, and he was deeply devoted to those he loved. His family will remember him for his steady love, his kind manner, and the example of faith and integrity he set for them.
His loving wife of 70 years, Ruth (Hartman) Kile, whose companionship and support were a treasured part of his life, survives.
He also leaves behind two sons, Elwood S. Kile (Robin) and Matthew S. Kile (Cathy), both of Franklin, and a daughter, Teresa Bowers (Roy) of Sugar Grove; three grandchildren, Seth Bowers, Madison Kile, and Evan Kile; six great-grandchildren, Cayson, Laney, Landon, Piper, Lucas and Aspen, all of whom brought him great joy and pride; a sister, Eleanor Triem of Eugene, Oregon; a sister-in-law, Faye Kile of Upper Tract; and several nieces and nephews.
He was also preceded in death by four brothers, Richard L. Kile, Samuel K. Kile, G. Arlin Kile and Carroll D. Kile; and two sisters, Dorotha Thompson and Kathleen Lotspeich.
A funeral service was held on Monday in the chapel of Schaeffer Funeral Home in Petersburg with Pastor James D. Wilkins officiating. Interment followed at Cherry Hill Cemetery in Upper Tract.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Gideons International or South Branch Ruritan Club, 2275 Schmucker Road, Upper Tract, WV 26866.
