Joan Brannan McKeel

While our hearts grieve, we rejoice in the homegoing of Joan Brannan McKeel, who departed this life peacefully on July 31st the age of 87. Joan was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and dear friend. Her loving heart, resilient strength, and generous spirit left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Joan was a woman of deep faith whose relationship with the Lord guided every aspect of her life. She found great joy in being part of the Bailey Methodist Church community and held a special place in her heart for the fellowship and friendship she shared with her Women’s Circle Group. Joan also shared a special bond with her loyal dog, Milly, who was always by her side and brought her great comfort and joy.

She will be remembered for her unwavering love and steadfast support for her family as well as the warmth she shared through home-cooked meals and the simple acts of kindness that brightened the lives of others. Joan also found great peace and delight in God’s creation, especially in the beauty of flowers, which she lovingly tended and enjoyed throughout the seasons. In her younger years, Joan was known for both her sharp mind and athletic ability, excelling in school and sports alike, she carried a spirit of determination and grace that remained with her throughout life.

Joan is survived by her sons, Larry McKeel and wife, Cindy, and Kevin McKeel and wife, Kim; granddaughters, Chelsey Thomas and husband, Jamie, and Haley Ward and husband, Russell; great-grandchildren, Laken and Suttyn Ward; sister, Nancy Bissette; nieces, Sherrie Conti, Tracey Shives, Vicky Boykin, Becky Boykin, and Holly Parmalee, and nephews, Jason Bissette and Grady Stone, and her sisters-in-law, Faye Jackson and Nancy Stone.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Thomas McKeel and her parents, Charlie and Maggie Brannan.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Joan’s devoted caregivers, Teresa and Becky, as well as Gentiva Hospice of Wilson, specifically her case manager nurse, Kayla and other hospice nurses for the exceptional care and unwavering support provided during her final days. Their kindness and presence brought great comfort and will always be remembered with sincere appreciation.

Funeral services to honor her life will be on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Joyner’s Funeral Home, 4100 Raleigh Road Parkway, Wilson. Interment will follow in Evergreen Memorial Park, Wilson. Rev. Michael Coppock and Rev. Danny Harris will officiate.

The family will receive friends prior to the service from 12:30 – 1:45 p.m. at Joyner’s Funeral Home, Wilson.

Condolences directed to Joyner’s Funeral Home and Crematory at www.joyners.net.