James Frank Keeney

James Frank Keeney, 82, of Macomb, IL, passed away at his home on August 3, 2025, surrounded by his wife and daughters. Born on March 29, 1943, in Moline, IL, to Clarence and Rita (Cox) Keeney, Jim graduated from Clinton High School in Clinton, IA, before attending Western Illinois University. At WIU, he became a member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity and earned a degree in Physical Education in 1965, followed by a Master's in Guidance and Counseling in 1967. While pursuing his graduate studies, Jim served as a graduate assistant in Student Activities, laying the foundation for his lifelong dedication to student life and campus involvement. On November 25, 1965, Jim married Marilyn Adams, beginning a loving and devoted 57-year partnership. His 38-year career at Western Illinois University began on July 1, 1966, as Recreation Supervisor of the Student Union. Jim went on to serve as Director of the University Union for 24 years and taught a variety of academic and recreational courses. He later designed and oversaw the construction of the Campus Recreation Building, serving as Director of Campus Recreation for 6 years before retiring in 2004. Jim's leadership and dedication earned him numerous honors, including Outstanding WIU Administrator, WIU Community Service Award, United Way-YMCA Volunteer of the Year, and the Recreation, Park and Tourism Administration Department Distinguished Service Award. Jim Keeney was deeply committed to his community and generously shared his time and talents to numerous local organizations. He served as an Emmet Township Trustee and was a Training Officer for the Emmet/Chalmers Fire Protection District for 5 years and belonged to its Volunteer Firefighter Association. His community service extended to roles on the YMCA Executive Board, WIU Alumni Association, Council of Administrative Personnel (serving as President), WIU Leatherneck Club, and the WIU Credit Union Board of Directors. Jim also found great joy in coaching summer youth baseball and officiating Macomb Junior League Football. After retiring from WIU, Jim continued to make a positive impact by managing Ball Fore, where he fostered a fun, welcoming environment for people of all ages. His dedication to the community and his warm, approachable nature remained central to who he was, touching the lives of everyone who knew him. For 29 years, Jim was a proud Illinois High School Association football official, and for 13 years, he officiated in the Gateway Football Conference. His talent and dedication earned him the honor of working 8 playoff games, 2 semifinal games, and a championship game. Jim also had the unique opportunity to serve as a scrimmage official for the St. Louis Rams during their summer training camps at WIU. After retiring from on-field officiating, he remained active in the sport as an observer for football and basketball officials in the Gateway (now Missouri Valley) and Summit League Conferences. Known for his good humor, Jim often joked that one of the best parts of officiating was that they "whistle while they work." One of Jim's greatest joys was spending time on the golf course with his friends. He could often be found there, generously handing out mulligans and sharing plenty of laughs. He cherished his daily tee times and the meaningful friendships that came with them. A devoted Green Bay Packers fan, Jim never missed an opportunity to cheer for his team. Remembered as a man of faith, loyalty, and generosity, Jim had an extraordinary gift for making others feel genuinely welcome. His broad smile, uplifting positive energy, and sincere warmth could effortlessly turn strangers into lifelong friends. Jim was known for his quick wit-much like his twin brother-and for being a hardworking, dedicated, compassionate, and strong individual. He shared a joyful life filled with laughter, love, and deep companionship with his wife, Marilyn. Affectionately known as "Pops" and "Papa," Jim was cherished beyond words. Above all, he was a deeply loving and proud father and grandfather, a devoted husband, and a strong protector of his family. Always there in an instant, he was our rock, our best friend, and our hero. His presence will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved him. Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Marilyn; his devoted daughters, Jennifer (David) Ludwig of Geneva, IL, and Lisa Keeney-Albrecht of Bettendorf, IA; and his four treasured grandchildren: Ava and Sadie Ludwig, and Carson and Molly Albrecht. He also leaves behind his favorite of the three Keeney girls-Miss Quincy the cat. Surviving relatives include special cousins Carol (Don) Clark of Missouri, Janet Snyder of Texas, Susan (Bill) Sturm of Springfield, IL, and Lou (Phyllis) Herbster of Arizona; his nephew Michael Keeney; nieces Sarah Davis and Erin Keeney; and many great-nieces, nephews, and extended family members who loved him dearly. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, cousins, and several special aunts and uncles. On November 10, 2004, he experienced the heartbreaking loss of his closest friend-his twin brother, Gerald F. Keeney. Cremation rites have been accorded by Dodsworth-Piper-Wallen Funeral Home in Macomb. Visitation will be held on August 8, 2025 at 4:00-6:00pm at St. Paul Catholic Church in Macomb, IL. Graveside burial will take place on August 9 at 11:00am at Oakwood Cemetery in Macomb, IL. Following the burial, a Celebration of Life will be held at The Macomb Country Club. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the McDonough County Animal Shelter, WIU Athletics, Oakwood Cemetery Beautification Fund, or the Elms Nursing Home Words to remember from Jim Keeney: "Hit 'em long and straight." "Wake up every morning with a little bit of happiness on your shoulder." "I'll see ya down the highway." Please sign the guestbook and leave condolences at www.dodsworthfh.com.