WILLIAM KEEDER

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Wilma McCourt Keeder in 2011, his high school sweetheart and lifelong partner whom me married September 19, 1952, as well as his devoted companion of 10 years, Ann Bray. Also preceded in death by his sisters, Lucille Johnson, Edna Tice, Faye Powley and Mildred Davis.

A 1949 graduate of Jefferson Union High School, Bud proudly served as a Naval Reservist before embarking on a career as a Union Operating Engineer. Beyond his profession, his true passions were his Belgian horses and his decades of service to the Jefferson County Fair. For 50-plus years, he served as a fair board member, helping to preserve and celebrate the agricultural traditions he cherished. He was a charter member of the Knoxville Volunteer Fire Department and was a member of the Hill Top Presbyterian Church.

He is survived by his three children: William “Bill” Keeder (Janice), Jan Keeder Bartlett, and Suzi DeAtley (Larry); seven granddaughters: Jennifer Keeder, Sarah (George) Taylor, Erin (ChrIs) Poole, Kelly Smogor (Jon Jagielski), Cari Valentine (Brandon Baker), Cristin (Mark) Dunlap, Samantha (John) Sciance; and 12 great-grandchildren, all of whom were a great source of pride and joy in his life. He is also survived by his sisters, Margaret Eakin and Frances Furbee and brother Harold Keeder.

Bud will be remembered for his quiet strength, enduring love for his family, and unwavering commitment to his community. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the fairgrounds he helped shape for generations to come.

Friends and family will gather for Bud’s visitation Tuesday, October 28, 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. at the Clarke Funeral Home, 302 Main St., Toronto.

Additional visitation will be held Wednesday, October 29, from 1-2 p.m. at the funeral home with a celebration service of Bud’s life following at 2 p.m. at the funeral home. The Rev. Jane Schockey will officiate. Interment will follow services at the Sugar Grove Union Cemetery. www.clarke funeralhome.com.