Keith Ollis

1951 - 2025

Keith Ollis, age 73, of Manteo, N.C., passed away peacefully on Friday, September 19, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born in Detroit, Mich., on December 31, 1951, to the late Baxter Ollis and Nita Ollis. Keith spent his early years in Owosso, Mich., before moving to Midland, Mich., where he would raise his family and spend many years working as a Funeral Director for Ware Smith Woolever Funeral Home.
Keith loved the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains and later moved to North Carolina, where he built a long and steady career as a residential/commercial Insurance Inspector. A profession in which he worked with dedication for many years before retiring in 2023.
A gifted musician, Keith shared his talent and joy through music all his life. He started playing piano at the young age of three. His love for gospel music showed while playing piano over many years in church. He entertained countless people over the years by sharing his piano playing in restaurants and special events in Midland, Mich., Asheville, N.C., and along the Outer Banks of North Carolina. His amazing ability to play by ear made his talent even greater. He loved bringing joy to people and his music brought comfort, celebration, and connection to everyone who had the privilege of hearing him play.
Keith is survived by his loving partner of 26 years, Catherine Bowser; his daughters, Jennifer Wale (Ryan), and Marcia Ollis; his grandchildren, Haley Scarborough, Jacob Wale, and Eva Wale; his brother, Aaron Ollis (Patricia); his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephew. He was preceded in death by his parents, Baxter and Nita Ollis.
He will be remembered as a man of warmth, humor and talent. A father who loved his daughters dearly, and a Paw Paw who cherished every moment he spent with his grandchildren.
The family will hold a private celebration of life and request that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Peak Resources Outer Banks, 430 W. Health Center Drive, Nags Head, NC.
Twiford Funeral Homes, 405 E. Church Street, Elizabeth City, NC, is serving the Ollis Family. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.