Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Tyler Keister Obituary
Tyler Armstrong Keister, 24, fought a long, hard battle with addiction, which ended peacefully on December 23, 2012.
Born March 1, 1988, Tyler was the youngest child of Donald and Jeanne Keister, formerly of Hockessin, Delaware. He is survived by his brothers Matthew Keister & Tripp Keister and his wife June, and his sisters Courtney Beth Keister & Kristin Keister DeGregory and her husband Joseph, his grandparents Wayne and Joyce Murphy White, his great-grandmother Anne S. Murphy, his treasured nieces and nephews Madison, Kevin and Kristin Keister & Gianna, Devon and Joey DeGregory, numerous devoted aunts, uncles, cousins, a wide circle of friends, and his dog Tedi Bear. He was predeceased by his grandparents Donald and Mary Leukel Keister, great-grandparents Edward and Eleanor Brown White, Charles L. Murphy and Rebecca Armstrong Crowe Murphy. Tyler was loved by everyone and his absence leaves a tremendous hole in our hearts. He was kind, bright, charming, funny, charismatic, and big-hearted, never embarrassed to show his love of others.
A 2006 graduate of Caravel Academy, Tyler was proud to play on the 2005 state championship football team. As a youth, he played baseball for Piedmont Babe Ruth, soccer for the Hockessin Soccer Club and football for the Hockessin Hawks. He was a member of Red Clay Creek Presbyterian Church. He attended Wesley College and Wilmington University and was recently employed as a personal banker and a banquet server.
Tyler never stopped wanting to get well and was disappointed in himself for letting others down. We appreciate the visits and caring words from loved ones and would like to thank everyone for their prayers. The kindness of the medical staff on CCHS 3E MICU was especially appreciated.
We are hopeful that Tyler's decision to become an organ donor will bring joy to other families. He died on his sister Courtney's birthday and we will continue to celebrate both of their lives on this special day.
All services will be held at Red Clay Creek Presbyterian Church, 500 McKennan's Church Road, Wilmington, DE 19808. Friends may call at the church on Thursday, December 27, from 4 to 7 pm. and again on Friday December 28, 2012 from 1-1:45 pm. The service will begin at 2 pm with burial immediately following in the church cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Tyler's name to Caravel Academy, 2801 Del Laws Road, Bear, DE 19701.
To send condolences, visit
www.dohertyfh.com
302-999-8277
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Tyler Keister
Sponsored by Tyler's family .
Jimmy williams
April 25, 2013
Mr keister and family I am so sorry for the loss of one of the greatest guys I have known. Tyler was and always will be one of my football brothers. He was a great young man. I will keep him and the family in my prayers.
christine mills
March 22, 2013
i never knew tyler but from all i have read i feel like a know him. what an amazing young man my heart breaks that the world lost such a kind soul. i admire your family in its mission to help other tyler will never be forgotten. my prayers are with his family.
February 9, 2013
Dear Keister Family,
We are praying for your family as you deal with such a tremendous loss.
Cory, Missy, Magnus, and Corbin Wamble
January 25, 2013
Dear Keister family; Ruth and I are saddened by your loss, and we will continue praying for all.
peace,
jack & Ruth
January 24, 2013
Dear Don, Jeanne, Matt, Courtney and family. We were deeply saddened to hear of your loss. We can only offer prayer at this time as I'm sure, no words can comfort you. Bob & Dawn Oas, Melissa and Jeff Owens
The Rao Family
January 10, 2013
Dear Keister Family,
We are deeply sorry for your loss. Words fail us. You are in our sincere thoughts and prayers.
Abhishek, Akhil, Sudha, and Bhaskar Rao
January 9, 2013
Our thoughts and prayer are with you every step of the way as you move through this difficult time.
The Maxwell Family
Tiia, Kevin, Austin, Courtney and Taylor
Lorraine Yancoski
January 8, 2013
Words do not seem enough to convey our deepest sympathy over the loss of your beloved son. Please know that he is being prayed for . May God bless him and hold him in the Palms of His Hands until you once again are reunited with him.
In loving memory,
The Yancoski Family
Jason, Lanusa, Gabriella and Mom Mom Lorraine
The Criniti Family
January 7, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this most difficult time. We appreciate the time Tyler spent with our boys at Caravel and his ability to make them feel special. He was a very respectful and kind hearted young man.
Sonya, John, Victoria & Thomas Edwards
January 7, 2013
Mr. Kiester and Family,
We are very sorry for the loss of your son. Our heartfelt prayers are with you and your family through this difficult time. May you find comfort in all those that care, love, and surround you.
January 7, 2013
Dear Mr. Keister,
We are saddened to hear of the loss of your son. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family at this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Olivia Meyer (gr.3) and Ericka Meyer
January 7, 2013
Dear Mr. Keister,
Please accept our belated condolences on the loss of your son. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family at this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Ericka Meyer and Olivia Meyer
Vu Dang
January 7, 2013
Dear Keister Family,
Please accept your belated condolences for loss of your beloved son. May the happy memories of Tyler would always warm your hearts and bring you peace.
Respecfully,
Melissa Dang, Marvin Dang, Christine Dang, Tam Phan and Vu Dang
January 7, 2013
Dear Keister Family,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. We hope that loving memorries of Tyler would always warm your hearts and bring you peace.
Respecfully yours,
Melissa Dang, Marvin Dang, Christine Dang, Tam Phan and Vu Dang
Jenna and Mary Bailey
January 7, 2013
Our prays are with the family and we are sorry to hear o f your lost.
Rodney & Katie Bailey
January 7, 2013
Don, Jeanne & Family,
Rodney & I (along with the entire Bailey Family) are so sorry to hear about Tyler. Our thoughts & prayers are with you all. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help you both now & in the future.
Kim Heath
January 7, 2013
Dear Keister family,
We are so sorry for the loss of your son. Our hearts break for you in this most sad and difficult time. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Heath Family
Tina, John and Logan Medkeff
January 7, 2013
The Medkeff family is so sorry to hear of your loss. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Groce Family
January 7, 2013
Dear Keister Family
Our prayers are with you and you are in our thoughts.
January 6, 2013
The Rydland family is so sorry for your loss. You have been in our hearts and we pray for you all. Ashley, Jake and Connor had the pleasure of having Tyler as a substitute teacher and really liked him. We hope you will find comfort and peace in the wonderful memories you shared.
Stacey and Kris Rydland
Sandor Ludasi
January 6, 2013
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Sandor, Joan and Sandor II Ludasi.
January 6, 2013
Our hearts break for you and your family. My son knew Tyler from aftercare and has fond memories of him at "all time quarterback". He made a difference in their days!
Jamie, Chris, Ethan (6th) and Christian (2nd) DeRegis
Lisa Burns
January 6, 2013
Dear Keister Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Please know that we will keep you all in our prayers.
God bless,
Rick, Lisa and Randy Burns
Lisa Flaherty
January 6, 2013
Dearest Keister Family-
Thinking of you at this most difficult time.
Emily, Samantha, and Mom Flaherty
John and Christine Yasik
January 4, 2013
Dear Jeanne, Don, Matt and Courtney,
We loved TyMan and were so sorry to just learn of your loss. There are no words, just prayers. Love,
Tom Martone
January 4, 2013
Jeanne and Don - my family and I were deeply saddened by the news. Tyler was clearly a loved man who touched the hearts of many. Everything I heard of Tyler was good. Wish I knew him. God bless you and all that are hurting
Sandy Kuhn
January 3, 2013
Dear Jeanne and Don,
I'm so sad to hear about Ty. Sending you lots of warm hugs and prayers to your family.
Love you, Sandy
Jeanne and Don Keister
January 3, 2013
We have been overwhelmed with all of the gestures of kind words, cards, flowers, food, offers of help, text messages & email, phone calls, love, support and prayers that have been offered to our family and we appreciate each, and every, one of them! Tyler's struggle may be over, but it is our hope to find a way to reach out and help others who may also be suffering. We have heard from so many people already about how much they appreciated us being honest with Tyler's obituary, as they also love people who are suffering. This disease was only one thing about Tyler and we are fortunate that he continued to be a kind, loving, compassionate person. Please know how much we appreciate you reaching out to us!
January 2, 2013
Dear Keister family,
We pray that God will hold you close and bring you comfort with warm memories of happy times together. You are all in our prayers.
George and Beverly Murphy
(parents of former Caravel student George Murphy)
December 31, 2012
You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Wayne and Nancy Dean
December 31, 2012
Dear Keister family,
We were so saddened to learn about Tyler, and our thoughts are prayers are with all of you. We remember him well from his HB days. A picture of him with Pat and Andy when they went to NYC and the Statue of Liberty continues to hang in Pat's old bedroom and has always brought a smile.
Our hearts are saddened by your loss. We pray memories of brighter days with Tyler will comfort you.
Darryl and Kate Lorenz
Lisa Risner
December 31, 2012
Dear Don, Jeanne, Matt and Courtney,
I was so saddened to hear about Tyler. I will always remember him as the little boy who sat on my lap at the pool and ate my dinner. I hope that time will help you all to find peace.
Lynn Shelton
December 31, 2012
Dear Mr & Mrs Keister,
So very sorry to hear of your son's passing. He & your family are in my prayers.
(Your former principal aid when you were at McKean)
Di (Boyce), P.
December 30, 2012
Soo,so sorry for your loss!! Praying for strength for Keister,White,n Cheng familys
December 30, 2012
Dear Coach and Family, Words can not begin to tell you how sorry we are for the loss of your son. We hope that you will take some comfort in the fact a part of him will always live on as he gave someone the gift of life. Barbie Landis Thomas & Family
December 30, 2012
We are so sad to hear of Tyler's passing and will keep all of you in our prayers.
The Schwalbe Family
Reid Family
December 29, 2012
Life is eternal, and love is immortal,
and death is only a horizon;
and a horizon is nothing save the limit of our sight.
~Rossiter Worthington Raymond
Mr. and Mrs. Keister and family,
We are so sorry for your loss of a loved one! You all and Tyler continue to be in our prayers.
With Love, Steve, Sue, Lindsey, Caroline, and Abbey
December 29, 2012
Dear Keister Family - we are so sorry for your loss. Tyler was always so polite, funny and kind. Our hearts break for you and pray for all of you. You angel Tyler will ALWAYS be guiding, loving and caring for all of you in every way possible. May the strength and love of your family and friends help you through the days ahead. Find you star in the night sky and you will see your son smile! May peace find you - The Gee Family
Sharon Biss
December 28, 2012
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Emily Cummings (CA alumni, class of 2002)
December 28, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with the Keister family and Tyler's many friends. I am so very sorry for your loss. I hope you all can find peace and comfort through your memories.
Ann Aquaintance
December 28, 2012
So, we'll go no more a roving
So late into the night,
Though the heart be still as loving, And the moon be still as bright.
For the sword outwears its sheath,
And the soul wears out the breast,
And the heart must pause to breathe,
And love itself have rest.
Though the night was made for loving,
And the day returns too soon,
Yet we'll go no more a roving
By the light of the moon.
Lord Byron
Rest In Peace Tyler.
May your family find peace of mind knowing that you are free of the demon that took you away from them and are now in the hands of God until you meet again.
Shannon Wilds
December 28, 2012
May all of the good memories that you have help to heal your broken hearts. May God grant you the courage to face the difficult days to come, and may the love that you shared and continue to share be what helps to eventually lead you to peace. My sincerest condolences....Shannon
The Hickman Family
December 28, 2012
December 28, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you!
John Chido
December 28, 2012
Mr & Mrs Keister,
We are so saddened by your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless you and your Family.
Aimee, John and Johnny Chido
Elizabeth Perkins
December 28, 2012
Dear Donald and Jeanne, my heart weeps for you in the loss of your son, Tyler. I, also, however, applaud you for being strong and adding the cause of death being the disease of addiction. I lost my son, John to the same disease on 5-5-11. We also stated the cause. My son had just turned 30 and we had battled his addiction for almost 10 years. I completely understand your pain. In order to keep myself from madness, I started the DE. Chapter of GRASP (Grief Recovery After a Substance Passing). We meet the 1st and 3rd Wed. from 7-8 at Westminster House Rm #2 in Newark. I feel it is very important that we speak out and tell our stories so that it can help others maybe avoid our pain. I know it may be too soon but know that, unfortunately, there are more of us than you can imagine. I am available anytime at 598-6296 or [email protected]. I know your Tyler was an incredible, loving child just like our son John. Our love and support and gratitude for your honesty go out to you and your family.
Bets Ridings
December 28, 2012
Don and family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
mike aruanno
December 28, 2012
I can not begin to express my sadness for your loss. There will always be a place in my heart for tyler.
Megan Jones
December 28, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with the Keister family. Sometimes it's hard to understand why things happen, but we pray for the courage to continue moving forward, even in times like this. May God be with you.
December 28, 2012
May memories comfort you and bring you peace during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jean and Bruce Kraeuter
Joseph Lindbergh
December 28, 2012
To the Keister Family, I am sorry for your loss ! Tyler was only in my life for 3 years, and became a true friend instantly! I've known Matt for almost 10 years. Tyler instantly became a friend and I could see that he touched everyone he met the same way, just by being genuine and kind! I miss ya buddy!
Carolina McCormick
December 28, 2012
I am so sad that I won't see Tyler again. We had some great conversations, especially about dogs! He had the greatest little chuckle! It was a pleasure working with him and he'll be missed. My deepest condolences.
Alex Kukich
December 28, 2012
My condolences to the Keister family as you've lost a brother, son, nephew, grandson, and above all else, a tremendous friend. Laugh at the good times, and cry with the tougher ones. May peace be with you all, and may god rest his soul.
Gina
December 28, 2012
My heart goes out to your family. My boys attended C.A., my eldest son knew Tyler. I understand the sudden loss of a child. We lost our 17 year old not yet a year ago. The hardest part of this is to understand that for whatever the reason, this was the way their story was to go, not end. Lessons will be left and I hope that you allow yourselves to greive at your own pace.
Kathleen Divirgilio
December 28, 2012
My sincere sympathy for the loss of Tyler, he was a my son's friend and I remember Tyler during the years, he was a nice boy. My prayers to all of the family.
December 28, 2012
Our hearts go out to the Keister family at this time of sorrow. Bless you all. Leslie and Lloyd T.
December 28, 2012
i do not know you personally but i am a friend of ed gucken --my thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time--kathy will watch over him!!!!rip
marie majewski
December 28, 2012
Mr. Keister and family, sorry for your loss, keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers
jane hurlock
December 27, 2012
our thoughts and prays are with you and your family at this time of great loss of your son Tyler. The Hurlock Family
Edward Guckin
December 27, 2012
Dear Don, Jeanne, Matt and Courtney and family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful and loving son and brother. May God grant you peace, as I know that Ty is at peace with God and Kathy and all his grandparents. I know they are all laughing at his jokes.
I will pray for him every day. Also - we now have another saint that can pray with us to God. Love Ed, Alicia and Stephen
Denise Levering
December 27, 2012
Although I did not know your son, our son has faced the battle of addiction. I share your sorrow and pray for your healing. <3
Alison Harper
December 27, 2012
Dear Don, Jeanne, and the entire family,
I remember meeting Tyler in the halls of Caravel. He was always a smiling, kind, and respectful student. His charming and caring personality was evident when I got to witness his joy of working with children including my son in aftercare. I will continue to pray for you and your family that you may feel God's arms around each of you just as he is doing for Tyler now.
The Harper Family
December 27, 2012
Dear Don and Jeanne,
The Myers family sends you our love at this time of loss for your family. May God send you peace, and may your grief soon turn to happy memories.
Love,
Gretchen Myers
Hap and Bette Crystal
December 27, 2012
We are so sorry for your loss! May God bless you with his love at this sorrowful time! Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers!
Jennifer Lynch
December 27, 2012
Don and family,
I remember Tyler as a little boy at Mckean football games tugging on daddy's pantlegs, then later seeing him and siblings at Sherwood Park swim meets with his tow head blonde hair. I am so sorry for your loss, I can't imagine. I am the age now that Don probably was then when I met Don and Tripp in 1987 @ Mckean and remember Tyler being born. My thoughts and sympathies are with the Keister clan.
Gabrielle Bradley
December 27, 2012
Dear Don and Jeanne,
My heart is broken over your loss. Tyler was such a charmer. My prayers are with you and your family that God will give you both peace. much love,
December 27, 2012
What a sad end to a lovely young man from a loving family.our prayers are with all of you.
Crops gates neighbors
Linda and Richard Schiavi
December 27, 2012
Our hearts are saddened by the loss of Tyler. Please know all of you are in our prayers. It is our hope that his memories can bring smiles to you and brighten your days., Pete, Sue, Mat, Stephanie and Laura Dunbar
December 27, 2012
My deepest sympathy in the loss of your son. You are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless. Barbara Andrews, Stuart, FL
Jess Bonini
December 27, 2012
So sorry to hear of this loss. Tyler and his family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Pam Collins
December 27, 2012
My deepest sympathy to the Keister family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Sue League
December 27, 2012
Prayers are with your family. Very sorry for your loss.
Merry Segal
December 27, 2012
Keister Family:
My heart and prayers go out to all of you. He will be missed deeply.
Kat Cole-Barry
December 27, 2012
The Keister Family is in my thoughts. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Marie-Christina Jardine-Mensinger
December 27, 2012
Keister family:
So sorry for your loss. May he rest in peace.
December 27, 2012
Donald, Jeanne, and family,
Our deepest sympathy to you and your family, especially during this difficult holiday season. You are in our thoughts and prayers,
The Moon Family,
Michele, Steve, and Caitlin (Class of 2009)
Kacee Benson
December 27, 2012
Thoughts & Prayers are with Mr. Keister and family.
Andrew Kerstetter
December 27, 2012
He was a remarkably likeable person. Charisma, kindheartedness. I saw in him the things I'd like to see in myself one day.
Shannan Beck
December 27, 2012
I am so sorry for your loss! I remember Tyler as a young boy and then as a bright 8th grader in my career guidance class. He was always smiling, and always made me laugh as his teacher. He was the kind of student that made me want to go to work each day! I have been praying for the entire Keister family since I heard this sad news. I pray that God will hold all of you close in his arms and surround you with his undying grace and peace during this very difficult time. With sincere condolences, Shannan Beck
December 27, 2012
Sorry for the loss of your beloved son Tyler. He is now in the hands of God who will take care of him and guide him.
The Petrucci Family
Beth Sorensen
December 27, 2012
Our deepest sympathies to Mr. Keister and his family. We are saddened by your family's loss. The Sorensen Family
Megan (Dean) Iannuzzi
December 27, 2012
My thoughts are with you all. I am saddened to hear of Tyler's passing. His organ donation will allow his life to live on. May he rest in peace.
Michelle Kitchen
December 27, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with the whole family. I was so sad when I heard the news, Tyler was a great person to grow up with and to go to school with. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Sincerely, Michelle K.
Jim Armistead
December 27, 2012
We are very sorry to hear about Tyler. We wish the entire Keister family Christ's peace during this very difficult time. The Armistead's - Jim, Pam, Matt, Dan, and Jen
Bonita Crawford
December 27, 2012
Matt & rest of the Keister family, I am so sorry for the loss of your brother, and son. My heart, thoughts and prayers are with you right now. May GOD give you all peace, strength and courage to get thru this tough time! I <3 you Matt my friend!!! I am here any time you need to talk xoxoxo!!!
December 27, 2012
Those we love don't go away, They walk beside us every day, Unseen, unheard, but always near, Still loved, still missed and very dear. ~ Unknown
May Tyler continue to walk with you and comfort you.
~Karen, Jim & Kathy Stewart
December 27, 2012
Jeanne & Don,
So sorry to hear of your loss. Our deepest sympathies go out to you and your family.
Darin and Eileen Kohler
Julie Mendola
December 27, 2012
Our hearts are heavy for the loss of your son, Tyler. We remember Tyler from Piedmont baseball and his animated spirit. We remember the entire Keister family supporting Tyler and the league from our days at Piedmont. Tyler and your family will be in our prayers. Sincerely, Julie and Mark Mendola
December 27, 2012
Dear Keister family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. I remember Tyler as a kind and considerate young man with a wonderful smile.
The Gollicker family
Kim & Andre Madey
December 27, 2012
Jeanne & Don;
Our deepest sympathies to you & the Family on your loss - may God's strength & love sustain you.
Tina Cooper
December 27, 2012
I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. A prayer of hope and strength to you and your loved ones.
Deb Henning
December 26, 2012
I met Tyler when he lived in Colorado & worked for my son at AT &T. He was an amazing, caring, respectful person that I was honored to know, My prayers are with you, Peace Be With You!
Bev, Bob, Brett, Michelle and Lauren Friedberg
December 26, 2012
Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal. ~From a headstone in Ireland
Our hearts are with Tyler and his family ~ forever
December 26, 2012
So very sorry for your loss. My heart aches for you. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Nancy Clifton and family
Shelvia and Jeff Tillinghast
December 26, 2012
Prayers of peace at this difficult time. We are so sorry to hear of your loss.
December 26, 2012
Our prayers are for the comfort that only God's Holy Spirit can bring at a time like this. Know our hearts are grieving with all of you and we will continue to pray for God's peace.
Ann and Randy Garrison
Elsie Peco Fogal
December 26, 2012
Dear Jeanne, Don and family,
I am so very sorry for your terrible loss. Prayer of hope and peace to you all.
December 26, 2012
Continued thoughts and prayers for strength & healing go to the entire Keister family. We are very sorry for your loss.
The Ogden Family
Showing 1 - 99 of 99 results
Make a Donation
in Tyler Keister's name
Memorial Events
for Tyler Keister
Funeral services provided by:
Doherty Funeral Homes, Inc. - Pike Creek3200 Limestone Road, Wilmington, DE 19808
How to support Tyler's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Tyler Keister's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
