Milton Edwin Hite

The staff at Heishman Funeral Home Inc. sends condolences to the family of Milton Edwin Hite. Milton Edwin Hite, affectionately known as Ed, Eddie, or ME, peacefully passed away on the 21st of July, 2024 at the age of 84 in his home in Edinburg, VA. Surrounded by family, friends, and caregivers, Ed concluded a life richly lived as a dedicated sportsman, military veteran, esteemed federal Department of Defense (DOD) manager, beloved brother, husband, father, grandfather, Virginia Tech graduate, and passionate philanthropist. Ed was born and raised in Edinburg, VA, where he also spent his retirement days. His remarkable journey began with a love for sports, excelling notably as a baseball player leading up through his multi-sport achievements at Edinburg High. He achieved All-State and State Champion accomplishments prior to taking his academic and baseball prowess to college. At Virginia Tech, Ed's talent shone brightly as a two-time Captain of the Hokie baseball team, earning Division 1 All-Conference honors. His skills even took him to a season in professional baseball. Known for his speed, agility, slick fielding, base stealing, and baseball IQ as a second baseman and shortstop, Ed left a lasting mark on the sport he cherished. Transitioning to golf in later years, Ed continued his competitive spirit as a member of the Springfield (VA) Golf and Country Club Senior Team, fondly known as the Gladiators. Ed would recount enjoying Springfield’s home course advantage and experiencing match play at most all of greater Northern Virginia’s private golf courses. He relished the camaraderie of teammates and challenge of competition, contributing to the team's many victories and championship seasons in Northern VA Senior Men’s League play. Ed's passion for golf extended into his retirement, where he enjoyed leisurely rounds with friends at Shenvalee Golf Club in his beloved Shenandoah Valley. Professionally, Ed dedicated the majority of his career to service, beginning in Army Intelligence and transitioning to civilian federal government service with the Navy. His tenure spanned from 1962 to 1997, contributing significantly to defense initiatives. In his later years, Ed continued his service in private industry with Teledyne Brown Engineering, maintaining his commitment to supporting DOD efforts. Ed's devotion to Virginia Tech extended beyond his playing days. Upon retirement, he established the Milton "ME" Hite Baseball Endowed Scholarship, a testament to his enduring love for Hokies baseball and his belief in the university's motto, "Ut Prosim" — That We May Serve. His philanthropic gesture ensured future generations could pursue their baseball dreams at Virginia Tech as he did, a place he held dear additionally as a former member of the VT Corps of Cadets. His consistent and substantial philanthropy to VT earned him and his wife admission into the UT Prosim Society- created in 1986 for the leaders in the community of philanthropy that sustains all areas of the university. Last but not least, Lane Stadium Hokie football games in Blacksburg were a favorite pastime Ed shared with family and friends on Thursday Nights and Weekends and was known to revel in shouting to any and all “Let’s Go…Hok-ies!” Above all accomplishments, Ed cherished his family. He met Cecelia in Richmond, VA, and they married in Edinburg, VA, beginning a life together as they moved to “the Big City” in Fairfax County where they raised their children, Cindy and Mark. Ed and Cecelia took great pride in their offspring’s achievements, supporting each child and grandchild as they pursued education, sports, extra-curricular interests, and careers in Fairfax, VA and beyond. Ed is survived by his loving wife Cecelia, children Cindy Hite Kuzemka (Justin) and Mark Hite (Ana), grandchildren Daniel, Nicky, Chris, Kate, Bella, Zoe, and Max, brother Dick Hite, and sister Ann Hite Fleming. His legacy of integrity, generosity, and love for family and community will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. In lieu of flowers, the family requests any desired donations to be directed to the Milton "ME" Hite Baseball Endowed Scholarship at Virginia Tech, continuing Ed's passion for supporting young athletes. Mailing Address: PO Box 10307, Blacksburg, VA 24062-0307. Physical Address: 185 Beamer Way, Lane Stadium, Rm 112, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061. Phone #: 540-231-6618 Ed's life was a testament to dedication, competitive spirit, and the joy found in family, sports, and service. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who were fortunate to share in his journey. Online condolences may be left at valleyfs.com Arrangements by Heishman Funeral Home Inc., Valley Funeral Service Branch, Edinburg.

Milton Edwin Hite

July 21, 2024