Katharine Jackson Rubright

Katharine Ann Jackson “Kathy” Rubright, lovingly known as “Fig,” passed away on February 5, 2026, at Virginia Hospital Center in Arlington, Virginia. Born on September 27, 1941, in Washington, D.C., she was the cherished daughter of Juanita Mayer (Levan), affectionately called “Dama,” and Marvin Jackson.

Kathy’s life was marked by talent, courage, reinvention, and deep devotion to family and faith. In the 1960s, she began her career as a gifted hair stylist, styling hair for some prominent figures, including a former First Lady, extending her generosity and skill to offer frequent neighborhood backyard-style haircuts to friends. In the late 1970s, she worked in a Washington, D.C. attorney’s office managing administrative suites while teaching night school cosmetology at Edison High School in Alexandria, Virginia. It was there, while taking a welding class, that she met the love of her life, Chuck—the welding teacher who would become her partner for more than 30 years, until his death in 2012.

In the early 1980s, Kathy served as church secretary at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Old Town Alexandria. Ever forward-thinking, she later pursued studies in the emerging field of computer science—an ambitious leap that launched a 25-year career in information technology. She worked as an IT manager at MITRE Corporation and its affiliated organizations, Mitretek Systems and Noblis, retiring in 2011 after a distinguished career marked by leadership and mentorship.

Nicknamed “Fig” by her then 15-year-old daughter, the name would stick for the rest of her lifetime, the name even accessorizing her car’s license plates for many years. It was likely her greatest joy to be called “Grandfig” by the grandchildren whom she adored. She possessed the gentlest of hearts and a kindness that made everyone feel valued and important. At work, she was a natural leader whose encouragement propelled colleagues toward their professional goals. At home, her unwavering love and sacrifice enabled her family to pursue their dreams, routinely sacrificing her own dreams so that they could achieve theirs.

Selflessly, “Fig” devoted countless years to caring for sick family members and friends. She supported charitable foundations close to her heart, particularly those aiding sick children. Strongly rooted in her faith in God, she lived out the commandments daily—demonstrating integrity, compassion, humility, and steadfast love for her neighbors.

For joy, she loved shopping trips with her daughter Heather, boat rides at the lake house that she and Chuck worked tirelessly to build from the ground up, time spent surrounded by family, and participating in exercise classes with her cherished workout friends. Her infectious, boisterous laugh, radiant smile that lit up her entire face, and nurturing spirit made her “Mom” to many of her children’s friends.

She will be forever loved and deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Kathy is survived by her daughter Heather (Cory); sons David (Shari) and Jason (Deanna); grandchildren Kevin, Micah, Lindsey, Blake, Madelyn, and Jameson; great-granddaughters Ruby and Nora; her sister Cam (Aussie); and many beloved nieces and nephews.