George Edward Keys

George Edward Keys, 81, of Keefton, OK was born November 27, 1944, to Lester William and Cora Belle (Sheffield) Keys in Dinuba, California and passed away peacefully on December 17, 2025, at his home with his loving family by his side.

George lived a life defined by hard work, service, and quiet devotion to those he loved. Raised in California and Arkansas, he later made his home in Arkansas, Missouri and Oklahoma, places that shaped his character and reflected his appreciation for land, craftsmanship, and self-reliance. He was a proud graduate of high school and went on to serve his country honorably in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, attaining the rank of Specialist Fourth Class. He was injured in the Ong Dong Jungle of Vietnam, south of Saigon and received a Medal of Honor as well as a Purple Heart for his service and bravery. His service was a source of deep pride, and he carried the values of duty and perseverance with him throughout his life.

Following his military service, George owned many businesses in California. He was the owner of Quality Dairy; he was also a Master Mason and pilot. When he moved his family to Arkansas in 1977, he worked as a manufacturing supervisor at Emerson Electric while building the family home on 80 acres near the Buffalo River. Known for his strong work ethic, steady leadership, and practical knowledge, he was admired by coworkers and friends alike.

George was a man of many interests and talents. He enjoyed fishing and hunting, woodworking, lapidary, stonework, and electrical work. He was an avid collector of guns and coins. He was an avid horseman as well. He was a flight instructor and had a fascination with aviation, particularly building and flying model airplanes. He also found joy in farming, gardening, and beekeeping, pursuits that reflected his love of nature and hands-on living.

George will be remembered as a devoted husband and father, a proud veteran, a skilled craftsman, and a man whose quiet strength and integrity left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lester William Keys and Cora Belle Keys; his wife, Michele Jean Keys; his brothers, James Keys, Charlie Keys, Albert Keys, Lucky Keys, Ray Keys, Homer Keys, Jarvis Keys; and his sisters, Phyllis Greer, Betty Keys, and Orfie Keys.

George is survived by his children, Michele Everly, Homer Keys, Gene Keys, Shannon Miller, and Stephanie Lindblom; and his partner, Guienda Dunlap and her children, Jami Dunlap and partner, Jacob Gibson, Kasie Lamb and her partner, Chad Jolly, and granddaughter, Jaylei Lamb. George also has 15 grandchildren.

A celebration of George's life will be held 1:00PM, Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at Clifford D Garrett Family Funeral Home Chapel in Fort Gibson, with Brother Justin Kinman officiating. Interment will follow at Fort Gibson National Cemetery where Military Honors will be observed.

The family of George Edward Keys has entrusted his care, service and burial to Clifford D Garrett Family Funeral Home, Fort Gibson. 918-478-2555.

Online condolences may be left for the family at clifforddgarrettfamilyfh.com.

Flowers may be sent to Clifford D Garrett Family Funeral Home, Fort Gibson, Oklahoma.