Donald Clay Keeney

Donald Clay Keeney of San Angelo, Texas, peacefully passed away at his home in his sleep and went to be with the Lord on September 17, 2025, at the age of 80.

Born on February 1, 1945, in San Angelo, he was the beloved son of the late Clay John and Ethel Louise Keeney. Donald was a proud graduate of Central High School, Class of 1963, where he served as drum major of the Bobcat Band for three consecutive years. He attended San Angelo College and East Texas State University before earning his Bachelor of Arts in Art from the University of Texas at Austin on May 31, 1969.

Shortly after graduation, Donald was drafted into the U.S. Army and served with the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, during the Vietnam War.

On June 1, 1968, Donald married the love of his life, Betty Jo Templeton. Together, they recently celebrated 57 years of marriage, raising two children and building a life filled with love, creativity, and faith.

Donald had a long and successful 20-year career with Sears Roebuck before retiring to fully embrace his lifelong passion for woodworking. A gifted artist and craftsman, he became known for his intricate wooden crosses and religious artwork. His iconic "cross and dove" design was eventually copyrighted, and his hand-cut crosses—estimated to number over 25,000—can be found in homes and churches across the United States. His final project, an 8-foot-long Noah’s Ark featuring hundreds of individually carved animals, was near completion at the time of his passing and stands as a testament to his remarkable skill and devotion.

He is survived by his loving wife, Betty; his children, Jayland Keeney and wife Adria of The Woodlands, TX, and Jennifer Haile and husband Norval of Abilene, TX; and his cherished grandchildren: Kanton (fiancée Renee Townsend) and Katie Hoelscher of North Richland Hills, and Cole, Carter, Cami, and Case Keeney of The Woodlands, Texas. He is also survived by his brother, Kenneth Wayne Keeney and wife Linda of Austin, TX.

Donald treasured his lifelong friendships and the memories he made with them. He had a special fondness for his Cushman Eagles and his famed “57 two-door sedan delivery,” which will eventually be restored in his memory. His close-knit group of friends, known as "The Prang Gang," formed during junior high, and they remain strong after more than 70 years.

A visitation will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Harper Funeral Home in San Angelo. Graveside services will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Mullins Cemetery, just east of Veribest, TX, officiated by Preacher Bill Welch.

Donald will be remembered for his faith, his artistry, his love for family, and the legacy he leaves behind, both in wood and in heart.