Sylvester Keith

Sylvester Keith, a devoted man of God, a proud Navy veteran, and a cherished family man, transitioned to his eternal rest on February 5, 2026. Born in Forsyth, Georgia, on January 6, 1972, to Mildred (John) and Eddie Frank Sidney (Deborah), Sylvester lived a life defined by unwavering faith, love, and athletic excellence.

A standout athlete and scholar, Sylvester was a proud graduate of the Jackson High School Class of 1990. During his time there, he became a local legend on the field and track. A triple-threat in football, basketball, and track, he set school records in both the high jump and hurdles-testaments to his discipline and drive that would follow him throughout his life.

Following graduation, Sylvester answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy. He served with distinction aboard the USS Nimitz, stationed in Seattle, Washington. His military career included tours in Singapore, Vietnam, and active duty during Operation Desert Storm.

For his bravery and dedication, he was awarded: National Defense Service Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal with Bronze Star, and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with Bronze Star.

After receiving an honorable discharge in 1994, his commitment to service continued as he joined the Navy Reserves.

Sylvester was a lifelong learner. He earned a degree in Accounting from Griffin Technical College before finding his calling in healthcare. He served as a Radiology Technologist at Grady Health Systems and was a dedicated supervisor at Northside Hospital at the time of his passing.

Beyond his professional work, Sylvester's true North was his faith. Ordained as a minister, he led his congregation as the Pastor of Fellowship of Faith in Jackson, GA. He spent his life ministering to others, sharing the Word, and serving the Lord with a joyful heart.

On July 12, 2003, Sylvester married the love of his life, Lisa Burrell Keith.

Together, they built a beautiful life centered on love and their five children: Eboni, Camille, Olivia, Tessa, and Maxwell. He was also the proud grandfather of Ashton.

An avid outdoorsman, Sylvester found peace on the water. Whether he was fishing, kayaking, biking, or capturing the world through his camera lens, he was happiest when surrounded by nature and his family.

Beyond his professional and military service, Sylvester was a gifted, self-taught guitarist and songwriter. His passion for music knew no bounds, spanning all genres and reaching listeners through his published songs. While he found success as a songwriter, his favorite "stage" was always at home. Whether performing solo or in a heartfelt collaboration with his son and daughter, Sylvester's music was the heartbeat of every family function, leaving behind a melody that will play forever in the hearts of those who loved him.

Sylvester's love and light live on through his devoted wife of 22 years, Lisa Burrell Keith, and their five beloved children: Eboni, Camille, Olivia, Tessa, and Maxwell. He was the world's proudest "Papa" to his grandson, Ashton.

His memory remains a source of strength and pride for his family: parents Mildred (John) and Eddie Frank Sidney - deceased (Deborah); his siblings, Tiffany (Cedric), Tameka (Pat), Jessica (Lashaun), and Darrin; and his cherished mother-in-law, Anita Burrell. His memory will be kept alive by his brothers and sisters-in-law: Ron (Genie), Brian, Tim (Susan), Aimee, Leslie, Jason, and Josh (Xiomy) along with a vibrant host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and a community forever changed by his life and service.

Two visitations will take place for Sylvester.

Visitation in (Jackson, Georgia) will be on Friday, February 20th, 2026 at Towaliga County Line Baptist Church 153 Short Road Jackson, Georgia 30233 from 3:00pm-7:00pm

Visitation in (Cumming, Georgia) will be on Saturday, February 21st, 2026 from 11:00am-1:00pm at McDonald and Son Funeral Home.

A celebration of life will be held in the chapel of McDonald and Son Funeral Home at 1:00pm on Saturday, February 21st, 2026.

The service will be live streamed beginning at 12:45pm on the day of the service.