Sylva - Donald Richard Keaton, 63, passed away on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at Mission Hospital.
Donald was a native of Burke County but had lived in Jackson County for a number of years and was a son of the late Carl and Elsie Bandy Keaton. In addition to his parents, he was a preceded in death by two brothers, Robert and James Keaton; a sister, Mary Crowder; and a granddaughter, Kaydince Greenman. Don was also a business man having done many occupations in many states.
He is survived by his wife, Tammy Panell Keaton; three children, Ricky Lee Delk, Brittney Keaton, and Kayla Greenman (Christopher); grandchildren, Carson Delk, Isaiah and Nevaeh Greenman, and Levi Norris; and a sister, Brenda Crane (Bill).
A graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 1, 2025 at Cullowhee Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:30 until 3:00 p.m. prior to the service at Appalachian Funeral Services of Sylva.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
165 Skyland Dr, Sylva, NC 28779
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.


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