Willie J. Keyes

WILLIAMSPORT - Willie J. Keyes, 76, passed away Thursday, March 29, 2018 at UPMC Susquehanna.

He was married on June 24, 1977 to the former Retha M. (Mitchell) who survives. 

Willie was born on July 6, 1941 in Bay Springs, Mississippi, the son of the late Reverend Matthew H. Keyes and Fannie (Nobles).  He graduated from Smith County High School, Taylorsville, Mississippi then attended Alcorn University.  He had worked for Eastern Industries in Winfield and retired after 40 years of service.  In his childhood years, he was a member of Shady Grove Baptist Church then became a Deacon of Revival Tabernacle of Watsontown, PA where he was active in all aspects of the church, including helping construct the church. He was truly a “Man of God, Family, and Sports!”

In addition to his wife Retha, he is survived by six sons; Willie J. Keyes, Jr. (Theresa) of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Robert L. Keyes of Williamsport, Steven J. Keyes (Aliya) of Dewart, Curtis J. Keyes (Lena), Willie J. Keyes (Desiree) and Joseph M. Keyes (Sloane), all of Williamsport, two daughters; Anita A. Keyes and Latricia A. Keyes, both of Williamsport, 23 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, three brothers; Corby L. Keyes of Bethlehem, PA,  Robert E. Keyes (Patricia) of Ft. Lauderdale, FL and Jarius Keyes (Patricia) of Shreveport, LA, two sisters; Fannie R. Edmonds (Rev. Darius) of Meridian, MS and Noble R. Gamble of Ft. Lauderdale, FL and a host of nieces and nephews.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers; Roy Keyes and M. H. Keyes.

There will be a public viewing 2 –3 p.m. Thursday, April 5, 2018 at Revival Tabernacle, 960 Susquehanna Trail, Watsontown, where the funeral will be held 3:00 p.m.  The Reverend James R. Bond will officiate the service.  Private graveside services will be held in Wildwood Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 15829, Arlington, VA 22215.

Arrangements are being handled by the Maneval Allen Redmond Cremation & Funeral Home, 500 West 4th St., Williamsport.

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