Jackie Keele

Jackie Howard Keele, 86, passed away on July 17, 2023 surrounded by his loving family.

Jackie was born Jan. 8, 1937 in Williamsville, Missouri and enlisted in the U.S. Army upon graduating from high school.

Jackie worked his way up through the ranks becoming a Green Beret and Ranger and then becoming a Chief Warrant Officer flying helicopters. He served in two tours in Vietnam and trained militia in Africa and Ethiopia. After serving 26 years in the military he finished out his career with the U.S. Post Office.

Jackie loved bowling, working in the yard with plants and traveling. He always tried to joke with people to get a rise out of them. He never met a stranger and had great friends he met while bowling like Don and Gloria Wolf, Don and Sissey Beyer, and Art Wilson. He loved talking with neighbors as they passed by and became friends with Reid Jaffe. Reid was always there for Jackie and a great neighbor.

Jackie is survived by his loving wife, Geneva “Ginny” Keele; sons, Gregory L. Keele (Tonya) and grandsons, Nicholas, Alex and Mason, J. David Keele (Camy); stepsisters, Julie Mcinnis, Mickie Robinson; stepson, Steve Yates (Kay); stepdaughter, Paula Cullison (Steve) and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Jackie was predeceased by parents Chester Oliver Keele, Lillie Evelyn Durrow, Janie Keele; first wife, Mary Jane Bilbrey Keele; stepsister, Martha (Junior).

Special thanks to all at the Veterans Administration and care taker Charlotte for helping Jackie with all his needs.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, July 21, 2023 at Duncan Cemetery in Piedmont, Missouri.

Nunnelee Funeral Chapel in Sikeston, Missouri, is in charge of arrangements.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.nunnleefuneralchapel.com for the Keele family.