Richard Harvey Keeling Jr.

1958 - 2025

Richard Harvey Keeling, Jr., age 66, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, at his home in Pinetta, Fla., surrounded by his friends.
Harvey was born on September 29, 1958, to Richard Harvey Keeling, Sr. and Prudence Keeling, both of Pinetta. He graduated from Madison High School in 1976 and went on to attend North Florida Community College.
After high school, Harvey began his working career at S&K Construction in Pinetta, where he specialized in framing new homes and interior trim work. In 1979, he joined the Lowndes County Sheriff's Department in Valdosta, Ga., and served as a deputy for two years.
In 1981, Harvey graduated from the Florida Highway Patrol Academy and embarked on a 25-year career as a Florida State Trooper. During his time with the Patrol, he served across the state of Florida, including assignments in Miami, Palatka, Gainesville, St. Augustine and finally in his home county of Madison.
Following his retirement in 2006, Harvey returned to Lowndes County, where he resumed his service as a deputy for another 10 years. At the time of his passing, he was still serving as a Reserve Deputy with the Lowndes County Sheriff's Office.
Harvey was deeply committed to public service and had an unwavering passion for law enforcement. He truly loved serving and protecting others.
Outside his career, Harvey was an avid race car enthusiast. He spent many years racing modified sportsman and late model race cars on both dirt and asphalt tracks, mainly in the South Georgia area. When he wasn't at the track, he could often be found outdoors, operating heavy equipment and enjoying land-clearing projects.
His passion for cars extended into his business life as well. From 2011 to 2020, Harvey owned and operated North Florida Paint and Body in Madison, where he took pride in providing both minor repairs and complete makeovers for his loyal customers.
Harvey was preceded in death by his parents, Richard Harvey Keeling, Sr. and Prudence Keeling; and his sister, Ellen.
He is survived by many dear friends-who were more like family-along with a community that loved and respected him.
A visitation for family and friends will be held on Sunday, Sept. 7, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., at Pinetta Methodist Church, with a funeral service to follow at 3 p.m., officiated by Rev. Jim Barker and Rev. Murrell Bennett.
Interment will follow at Mt. Horeb Cemetery in Pinetta, where Harvey will be laid to rest beside his parents and his beloved dog, Milton.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Big Bend Hospice in Harvey's memory.