David Joel (D.J.) Keith

David Joel “D.J.” Keith, Sr., 63 of Willis passed away Wednesday November 25, 2009.

He was married to Janet Slusher Keith for 43 years. He was blessed to have touched the lives of thousands of young people through his 41 years as a math teacher at Floyd County High School. He always described himself as a farmer as well as teacher for he loved working on his family farm. He was also known by many as the Civil War expert in the area. He shared his knowledge in Civil War re-enactment, living history presentations, and books from his vast library. In retirement, he enjoyed the fellowship of friends and the camaraderie during tractor rides on the family Farmall H. As much as he loved the aforementioned, his greatest love and joy was spending time with his children and grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dewey and Weeda Keith, and his brother, Harold Lee Keith.

Left to cherish their precious memories and the knowledge of how much he loved them are his devoted wife; Janet, beloved children, David, Jr. and wife Vonda; Jennifer and husband Dirk Davis; and Kevin and wife Missy; his precious grandchildren, Devin, Raven, Morgan, Jordan, Cortlyn, Ashton, Shaydun and Kendon Keith; Evan and Ryan Davis; and Kolten and Mikayla Keith, along with his numerous family members and friends.

A funeral service celebrating his life will be held 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 28, 2009, in the Floyd County High School Auditorium with Pastor Mike Varner officiating. Interment will follow in the Jacksonville Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Friday, November 27, 2009 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Floyd County High School Auditorium

Memorial gifts may be directed through Floyd County High School to the D.J. Keith Memorial Scholarship Fund; checks should be made to Floyd County High School with the memo notation, D.J. Keith Memorial Scholarship Fund.