William Ray "Bill" Keck

William Ray "Bill" Keck "11/03/1941 – 01/01/2026"

Bill was a graduate of Rule High School and the University of Tennessee.

His military service includes the United States Navy, having served on the USS Nereus from 1961-1966, achieving an honorable discharge with rank of E4, Petty Officer, Good Conduct Award, and Shellback Award.

After discharge from the United States Navy, Bill returned to his hometown of Knoxville and followed in his father's footsteps in the real estate business. Bill became a licensed real estate broker, both residential and commercial, as well as a licensed contractor.

As a contractor, Bill developed several subdivisions and business centers in the Knoxville, Tennessee area during his career. He retired from real estate associates of Knoxville owned with his wife in January 2025, and his wife continues with the business.

Preceded in death by father, Dewey Y. Keck, (a Knox County squire), mother Mattie Maddox Keck-Sims, stepfather Dave Sims, and brother Bob Keck (a former Knoxville fireman).

Bill leaves to cherish his memory his wife of twenty-nine years Minnie Ann Hughes Lane; son, Jeffrey H. Lane, who is with the Knox County Sheriff's Department; daughter-in-law Stacy R. Lane, who is with World Travel Service. Stacy was referred to by Bill as "My Stacy." He also leaves his grandson, J. Hunter Lane, with TQL of Knoxville. Bill is so very proud of the man J. Hunter has become.

Bill gave it all to God and led a giving and loving life, therefore he leaves several extended family members and many, many friends to miss him in his earthly home.

Special thanks and love go out to Joyce Watson of Knoxville who went above and beyond with Bill's home healthcare needs prior to the necessity of his entering the hospital.

The family would like to commend the efforts of Dr. Wahid Hanna, the Hanna Cancer members, and the Ben Atchley Tennessee State Veterans Home, for the care and support by each and every member during Bill's final days and moments.

The family will receive friends from 5:00pm-7:00pm on Tuesday, January 6, 2026 at Rose Funeral and Cremation – Broadway. A service will follow at 7:00pm with Mike Hamilton officiating. Family and friends will gather at 9:00am on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at Rose Funeral and Cremation – Broadway for a procession to East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery on John Sevier Highway, where a 10:00am graveside service will be held.