George L. Keenan

George L. Keenan

Chatham - George L. Keenan, a retired teacher and former resident of Chatham, NJ, died peacefully at home in Alpharetta, GA on November 26, 2020 at the age of 82.

George is survived by his son, Mark Keenan of Stillwater, MN, and his daughters, Beth Tully of Summit, NJ, Kathleen Garrity of Alpharetta, GA, and Christine Grobert of Gillette, NJ. He was also the proud grandfather of Owen and Kelly Keenan; James, Patrick, Kate, and Peter Tully; Sean, Kevin, Leo, and Meredith Garrity; Colleen and Jack Grobert; and great-grandfather of Maxwell Seth. George is also survived by his two sisters, Elizabeth Hadded and Patricia Underhill, and he is predeceased by his wife, Susan H. Keenan.

George was born in Fairfield, CT on October 4, 1938 to George and Rose Keenan. He graduated from Southern Connecticut University as an Education Major and was later awarded two additional Masters degrees. While at his first job teaching in Fairfield, CT, George met his future wife, Susan; a colleague at work. They were married on November 23, 1963 and celebrated almost thirty-seven years together before Susan's passing in August of 2000.

George was a devoted father and theater enthusiast. Having proudly lived in Chatham for over forty-seven years, he was frequently seen singing and dancing in a variety of roles for the Chatham Community Players. After retiring from teaching, George continued his passion for the theater working for the Papermill Playhouse in Millburn, NJ as an associate in their Art Gallery and later ushering and even playing a small role in one of their productions.

George was a proud Irishman, best known for his contagious laughter and tireless sense of humor. He was also a true lover of animals. He welcomed and adored countless furry, feathered, and scaley pets into his family over the years. To honor his love of animals, donations in his memory can be made to Saint Hubert's Animal Welfare Center (575 Woodland Ave., Madison, NJ 07940) or the ASPCA (www.aspca.org).

George took pride in being a long-time resident and teacher in Chatham, NJ. He really enjoyed getting to know his students, their families and he cherished the many friendships that both brought him.

A celebration of life memorial will be held at a later date, due to current Covid travel restrictions.