Patsy Keenum

1941 - 2025

Born in Booneville, Mississippi, Patsy was a bright and curious learner

who graduated with honors from Booneville High School in 1959. She

was a proud member of the Booneville Beta Club, served as editor-in-

chief of The Hi-Boone, and held the role of secretary for the

Mississippi Scholastic Press Association. During her senior year, she

met Thomas Keenum, a senior at Jumpertown High School. The two

were married on June 1, 1960, and later welcomed their only child,

Thomas Douglas Keenum Jr., on February 10, 1962. Patsy and

Thomas remained devoted partners for 65 years.

After high school, Patsy began working at the Prentiss County Power

Association, quickly rising to become office manager. She served

there for 21 years. Early in their marriage, she worked long hours

while raising their young son to support Thomas as he pursued a law

degree. She also helped purchase a home for her in-laws-an early

example of the generosity and determination that would define her life.

Following her retirement from the workforce, Patsy returned to school

and earned a Bachelor of Science in Art from Northeast Community

College with a perfect 4.0 GPA. Art was her lifelong passion, and she

continued her studies for many years. A respected artist in her

community, she curated local gallery spaces, including Sketches and

The Gallery, in partnership with family friend and designer Tim Pierce.

Patsy hosted numerous art classes and events, collaborating with

notable artists such as Jeanne Down and the late Billy Kirk. Her

paintings grace homes across Mississippi and beyond.

Patsy's dedication to service extended far beyond the arts. She was

an active member of the Business and Professional Women's Club,

where she served as president and was honored as "Woman of the

Year." She was also a member of The American Cancer Society and

as an asthma sufferer worked tirelessly on committees that helped

establish non-smoking areas years before such laws were enacted.

She was an avid reader, skilled gardener, bridge player, and

enthusiastic traveler. She loved to learn, to laugh, and to nurture-

whether it was people, plants, or animals. Among her beloved pets

was her precious Yorkshire Terrier "Sunshine" named after the John

Denver song.

Patsy was known for her loyalty, empathy and unwavering belief in

fairness and integrity. She was a steadfast friend and a nurturing

presence to both family and chosen family. Many considered her a

second mother, and her unwavering support was a constant through

life's most difficult times. Patsy was strong in her faith and recovery. A

member of West Booneville Church of Christ, she later found healing

and strength through her work at the Experiential Healing Center in

Memphis, where she not only pursued her own recovery but actively

helped others on their journey.

She is survived by her loving husband, Thomas Keenum; her son,

Tommy Keenum; and son-in-law, Scott Douglas. She is also survived

by her siblings: Peggy (Geno) Jobe, Diane (Johnsey) Wilson, and Jr.

Geno; as well as in-laws: Sharon Smith, Judy Geno, Earnest Jobe,

Billy Bolden, and the late Joey Johnsey and Elmo Wilson. Nieces and

nephews include Melissa (Jobe) Pittman, Allison (Johnsey) Rowell,

Tracy Bolden, Hope (Geno) McCoy, Mark Jobe, Joseph Johnsey, and

Manny Geno

Patsy was particularly close to her in-laws and cared for Thomas's

parents throughout their life. She also enjoyed close and loving

relationships with his siblings and their families. On her behalf the

family extends heartfelt thanks to the lifelong friends and relatives who

remained a steady support through the final chapter of Patsy's life. As

a devoted wife, mother, sister, artist, and friend, Patsy Keenum made

the world more beautiful and compassionate simply by being in it. She

will be deeply missed.

Condolences may be extended to the family at boonevillefuneralhome.net