Jimmy Dale Keys

DANVILLE - Jimmy Dale Keys, 60, of Danville passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday (Jan. 4, 2024).

He was born in Danville, the son of D.C. and Louise Duckworth Keys.

Jimmy loved to spend time with his family and friends, and depending on the occasion, he might be quietly cooking or being more social, walking around, talking and laughing, being more vocal than usual. He loved to cook and share with others, and like his parents, he would open his home to a family member or friend needing or wanting a place to stay. He enjoyed riding in the country, listening to music, working in his garden, yard work, fishing, watching movies, having conversations about current events and dancing.

The love Jimmy had for his family was genuine. Although he would get upset at times, nevertheless, he would apologize and ask for forgiveness. He was a protector, especially when it came to his sisters. Not wanting them to be traveling by themselves, he would ask, "Who is riding with you," and if need be, he would say, "I'll go with you." He would call to check on everyone or ask how they were doing and if he could do anything for them. Known to some as "Big Jim," he will be greatly missed.

Jimmy leaves to cherish in his memories three brothers, Truman (Carolyn) Keys, Bobby (Rose) Keys of Danville and Stanley Porter of Indianapolis; four sisters, Vickie (Randy) Westley, Brenda (Leslie) Fisher, Stacey (Shawn) Chapman and Karen (Terry) Forman, all of Danville; two sisters-in-law, Gayle Keys and Ginene Porter of Danville; one brother-in-law, Jerry Wilkerson of Michigan; two cousins, who also grew up at home with Willie, Edward Duckworth and Roy Dean Duckworth; three special nephews, Doug Keys, Marcus Keys and Gabriel Wright; two maternal aunties, Bobbie Patterson and Ann Gunn; two special friends, Minister Curtis and Eva Reed; his road-dog cousin, Junior Crosby; a special cousin, Maxie Keys; 48 nieces and nephews; 68 great-nieces and -nephews; 20 great-great-nieces and -nephews; and his dog, Brownie.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his loving parents, D.C. and Louise Keys; paternal grandparents, Hurk and Pinkie Keys; maternal grandparents, U.M. and Adeline Duckworth; four brothers, Dee Willie Keys, Junior Lee Keys, Timmy Keys and Kenneth Porter; two sisters, Joyce Ann Wilkerson and Henrietta Bryant; one sister-in-law, Veronica Keys; and one brother-in-law, Richard Durwin Woodard.

A homegoing service will commence at noon Saturday, Jan. 13, at New Jerusalem World Wide Ministry, 1033 N. Walnut St., Danville. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. until the time of services. Pastor Bobby Keys will officiate. Interment will be in Spring Hill Cemetery. Leek and Sons Funeral Home, 304 E. Williams St., Danville, is in charge of arrangements.

Condolences may be offered at leekandsonsfuneralhome.com.