Ronnie E. Keith

Ronnie Earl Keith, 82 years old, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2026, at Ratliff Care Center in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. He was born on November 21, 1943, near Piedmont, Missouri, a place that always remained close to his heart. For more than 20 years, Ronnie made his home in Cape Girardeau so he could be closer to what mattered most to him—his family, especially his grandchildren.

Ronnie married the love of his life, Jean Kathryn “Kathy” Keith, on April 9, 1967. Together they shared 57 years of marriage, building a life rooted in love and family. Kathy preceded him in death on May 13, 2024, and Ronnie has now joined her, reunited once again.

Ronnie was also preceded in death by his mother, Ruth Anna Mae Keith; his father, Henry Earl Keith; his brothers C.H. Keith, Don Keith, Jim Keith, and Bob Keith; his sisters Beulah Detro, Pat Baker, Peggy Worley, and Sue Reiche; and his beloved grandson, Liam Keith.

He is survived by his daughter Elizabeth Merideth and her husband Roy, their children Noah Merideth (wife Sarah), Gillian Merideth (fiancé Gabe Estes), and great-grandson Levi Merideth; his son Seth Keith; his brother-in-law Butch Burch (wife Beth); his sister-in-law Joyce Keith; as well as many nieces, nephews, and loving friends.

Ronnie devoted 30 years of his life to the Missouri Department of Conservation, a job he truly loved. As a Forest District Assistant, firefighter, and lookout, he spent countless hours in the Mudlick Fire Tower at Sam A. Baker State Park, keeping a watchful eye over the forests he loved so deeply. He drove a Caterpillar up the sides of mountains, helping save countless acres of forest and many people’s homes. He also took great joy in dressing up as Smokey Bear and visiting elementary schools, teaching children about fire safety and caring for the land. His dedication to protecting Missouri’s natural beauty was quiet but unwavering.

A gentle soul, Ronnie was known for being soft-spoken, kind, and very funny. His humor was subtle and perfectly timed, and those who knew him well treasured it. He had a deep love for animals and the outdoors, often bringing home orphaned wildlife rescued from forest fires—squirrels, flying squirrels, owls, and even a fawn—caring for them until they could safely be returned to the wild.

When he wasn’t working or caring for animals, Ronnie enjoyed the simple pleasures of life: taking naps, watching Gunsmoke, collecting old coins, bills, and arrowheads, and spending time with the people he loved most. Above all else, he adored his family, and nothing brought him more joy than his grandchildren and great-grandchild, who affectionately called him PawPaw and loved him very much.

Ronnie will be remembered for his quiet strength, his gentle kindness, his love of nature, and the way he showed his care through steady presence rather than loud words. He leaves behind a legacy of service, compassion, and love that will continue to live on in all who knew him.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the owners, staff, and residents of Ratliff Care Center for the love, kindness, and care shown to Ronnie. Your compassion meant more than words can express.

Visitation was held at 4:00 PM Monday, at the Morrison Funeral Chapel in Piedmont. Funeral service was at 10:30 AM, February 3, 2026 at the funeral home chapel with Bro. Alan Conner officiating and eulogy given by Eddie Hovis. Special recorded songs were played for the service and Roy Meredith, Nick D'Amico, Matthew D'Amico, Andrew D'Amico, Paul D'Amico, and Adriann D'Amico served as Pall Bearers. Interment was in the Masonic Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Southeast Missouri Pets in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, in honor of Ronnie’s lifelong love of animals.