Frank J. McKeown Jr.

Family-Placed Obituary

FRANK J. McKEOWN, Jr. 80, of Palm Beach, FL, died Friday, August 12, 2011, after a long and heroic battle with cancer. Frank J. McKeown was born in New Haven, CT. He was a gifted athlete, attending both Hopkins Preparatory School, and the University of North Carolina on football scholarships. He was an Eagle Scout. He enlisted in the Marine Corps and served in the Korean War. He was a proud, but humble marine, and was awarded numerous medals for his service to country, including three purple hearts and the bronze star. Mr. McKeown subsequently attended the University of North Carolina law school. He moved to Palm Beach County shortly after graduation, and has lived his life here. He began his career practicing law in 1960 with the firm of Cone, Owen, Wagner and Nugent. He then moved on to establish McKeown and Gamot, and later, McKeown, Gamot and Phipps. His legal career spanned more than fifty years, and he was a vigorous advocate for his clients. He was hardworking and represented his clients with honesty and compassion. A dedicated trial attorney, Mr. McKeown served as general counsel for the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office for many years. Though he was known to be a tough adversary in the courtroom, he was also kind and generous to his colleagues and those in need. He was recognized by the Legal Aid Society for the contribution of his services. He was a respected leader in the community, and served on the boards that helped establish both Palm Beach Junior College and Doctor's Hospital in Lake Worth. He was a loyal friend with a kind heart, who was extremely generous and caring. He lived his life with integrity and humility. Mr. McKeown was a loving husband, beloved father and grandfather, and an inspiration to his family. He was a pillar of strength and love. He is survived by his wife, Toddy McKeown; his children Theresa Lord, Suzanne Swope, and Frank McKeown; his stepchildren Lee Replogle-Reid and Chad Leighton; his grandchildren Danny Swope, Andrew Lord, Emilie Leighton and Jack, Bowman and Landry Reid; and his cousins, Frank Dooley and Patricia Calistro. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, August 20, at 4:00 PM at QUATTLEBAUM FUNERAL HOME, 1201 South Olive Avenue, West Palm Beach, FL, 33401. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the American Cancer Society, 621 Clearwater Park Road, West Palm Beach, FL, 33401. QUATTLEBAUM FUNERAL HOME Family Owned and Operated (561) 832-5171 To express condolences and/or make donations Visit PalmBeachPost.com/obituaries