Dutha Beard Keith

Dutha Beard Keith, 80, passed to her heavenly home on January 2, 2026. Dutha was born on February 4, 1945 in Tylertown, MS to Ernie and Beatrice Rowell Beard. Dutha is preceded in death by her parents and her siblings-Elton, Felder, and Von Beard. Dutha is survived by her devoted husband of fifty years, Jimmy Keith; nieces, Blanche Beard Moore and Linda Beard Holmes (Bennie). Dutha's lifetime, best friend from Salem School was Joan McCallum Johnson who remained a friend "like family" that had countless fond memories through years of travel adventures and often daily contact. They both enjoyed time with family, friends, and "eating Mexican food". Dutha's love of outdoor activities were playing tennis, skeet and trap shooting, pickleball, working in her yard, and walking daily. She was recently described by her niece, Linda, as" Dutha, nor my Daddy never let grass grow under their feet". Dutha was a woman with a variety of God-given abilities, talents, and hobbies, she was known by family and friends as a steadfast fan of ALL LSU Sports. She was never phased by new challenges, whether in work, play, or life extreme health issues. Her prayer life was strong with deep compassion for other's needs. Her dedicated work ethic was evident by twenty-five years of service with Sear-Roebuck Corporation and twenty years with Cajun Electric Power Company in the Baton Rouge area. After retiring, Dutha and Jimmy moved to McComb to be closer to family and friends. She continued to work part-time jobs at a tennis court in Baton Rouge, Walthall County Circuit Clerk office, and a local lawyer's office. Dutha leaves a legacy documented by her family genealogy records, a passion with photography while capturing numerous occasions and travels/vacations with family and friends. Dutha had an innate gift of sharing time with each and every one of her siblings, their children, and grandchildren. Her niece, Blanche, described her as a "her role model, confidant, and a rock, who will be greatly missed by family and friends as we strive to achieve and carry-on her legacy and example." One of her nieces, Alexandra, said it best, :"she was impressive, a beautiful soul, and the best gift-giver ever: I can picture her tearing up a pickleball court in Heaven".

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 from 1:00 PM until service at 2:00 PM at Capps Funeral Home, 270 Old Hwy 98 E, Tylertown, MS. Burial will follow in the Hillcrest Memorial Gardens. Father Bill Henry will officiate. Hartman Hughes Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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