Willard Keen (Lebanon)'s Obituary
James Willard Keen was born July 7, 1935 near Brownfield, Missouri, to James Matthew “Jim” and Vadie Rogers Keen. He passed away Friday, April 11, 2025 in Lebanon South Nursing and Rehab. He was eighty-nine years, nine months and four days of age.
Willard was raised in the Brownfield Community, near Crossroads, and attended Lebanon Schools. As a teenager, he worked at Joe Knight Drug Store and the local theater. Willard would then join United Amusements as a mechanic and would eventually own the business for over fifty years.
On June 13, 1953, Willard was united in marriage to his true love and best friend, Joyce Jane Myers, with whom he shared forty-eight wonderful years of marriage. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.
Willard was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Vadie; his loving wife, Joyce, who passed away July 18, 2001; his son, James David Keen; his brothers, Robert, Freeman and Phillip Keen; and two sisters, Mary Baldwin and Alma Hardy.
He is survived by his son, Tim Keen and his wife Paula of Lebanon, Missouri; three grandchildren, Landon Keen of Dallas, Texas, Lyndi Keen of Lebanon, Missouri and Chris Keen of Utah; six great-grandchildren; and a special niece, Louetta Moore.
Willard grew up in Crossroads Freewill Baptist Church.
He enjoyed fishing, especially with his brother. He was very fond of his Yorkie’s. He possessed a quiet personality and was a kind gentleman.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, his family was the center of his world. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, love and dedication to his family. His absence will be deeply felt by his family, friends, and the many people he touched throughout his life.
Service for Willard Keen will be Thursday, April 17, 2025 at 2 p.m. in Holman-Howe Funeral Home. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.
Burial will be in Mount Rose Memorial Park.
A memorial to Alzheimer’s Foundation has been established and donations may be left at the funeral home.
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