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John Keith Obituary
John Emil Keith, Jr., 81, of Forest, passed away on Sunday, January 4, 2026. He was a loving and devoted, husband, father, and grandfather.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Maryann Fleck Keith; a son, Jeffrey Keith (Jeanie); a daughter, Melany K. Braxton; three grandchildren, Justin Keith, Jack Keith, Patrick Moffatt; and a brother, Henry Keith.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John E. Keith, Sr. and Susie Louise Williams, Keith; a son, James Keith; and a grandson, Tyler Keith.
He was retired from J. Crew, loved to play golf, and delivered Meals on Wheels. He founded Back Pack for Kids along with his wife, Maryann.
A celebration of life service will be held 2 p.m., Saturday, January 10, 2026 in the chapel of Heritage Funeral Service by Rev. Ronald Davidson and Dr. Doug Randlet. The family will receive friends after the service at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, please consider Meals on Wheels, PO box 1388, Lynchburg, VA 24505.
Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory, (434) 239-2405, is assisting the family. Memories and thoughts may be shared with the family at www.heritagefuneralandcremation.com
Memories and Condolences
for John Keith
Sponsored by Heritage Funeral Service & Crematory.
6 Entries
Carolyn & Enoch Feagans
January 11, 2026
Maryann, our prayers are with you & your family! John was such a great man & a caring person, just like you! I still remember when y´all moved to Lynchburg with J Crew & I called on him on my job. He then wanted me to meet you & we three went out to lunch together. It was obvious that you & his children were his life, as you well know! Always remember seeing the two of you at Kings Dominion many, many years ago & you were holding hands as you walked through that beautiful archway covered w/ live greenery as the water sprinkled down upon you! A memory that sticks w/ me...as I´m sure it does for you as it pictured your loving your relationship!!! As you know, the Lord says, "I will never leave you nor forsake you."
Pam Knichel
January 10, 2026
I was fortunate enough to have worked with Mr. Keith at JCrew. Please accept my sincerest condolences for your loss and may the God who surpasses all understanding give your family peace and comfort.
Marvin & Gray Ragland
January 9, 2026
Our Thoughts and Prayers are with the entire family in the loss of John. We enjoyed our time in Forest getting to know them.
Marvin & Gray Ragland
Calabash, North Carolina
Dolly Goodman
January 8, 2026
I was very sad to hear of John´s passing. We worked together at Crew and I always enjoyed bumping into him around town after retirement.
God´s blessings to John´s family and friends. I´m glad I had the opportunity to know this gentle and caring man.
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Billiejo Cox
January 8, 2026
May God comfort you and heal you. Love and prayers
Joanne,Billiejo and Todd
Dianne Foster
January 8, 2026
I was so saddened to read of John´s death. He was a true southern gentleman who loved God, Maryann, his family, and his friends. It was truly a blessing to be his friend. May God bless his family.
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