Jeanette Keckley

(From Parker Mortuary)

Jeanette Louise Gardner Foster Keckley, age 95 of Joplin, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 1, 2016 at her home.

Born December 30, 1920 in Pittsburg, KS, she was the daughter of the late Frank H. Gardner and Mary Pauline Bennett Gardner and had lived in the Joplin area most of her lifetime. Jeanette graduated from Joplin High School in 1938, from the former Joplin Junior College in 1940 and received her Bachelor of Arts from Pittsburg State University in 1942. A former member of First United Methodist Church in Carthage from 1946 to 1978, she then joined First Community Church of Joplin. She served as a volunteer at both Oak Hill and Freeman Hospital gift shops for 30 years and 10 years at the Red Cross of Carthage. She was also a member of Joplin Women's Club, Alpha Sigma Alpha Alumni and American Association of University Women. Jeanette was an avid bridge player, loved to dance and conquer crossword puzzles. She was very competitive at games and was difficult to beat. She had a gracious personality and was always there to help friends and family when needed.

On November 16, 1944 she married Clifford L. Foster in El Paso, TX. He preceded her in death in August of 1978.

She married E. Weldon Keckley on June 6, 2004 in Joplin. He preceded her on December 1, 2008.

Survivors include a son, Dennis L. Foster and wife Joyce of Sandy, UT; a daughter, Susan J. Haggerty and husband Bob of Loma Linda, MO; three grandsons, Michael Foster of Midvale, UT, Jason Foster and wife Kimberly of Anaheim, CA, Chris Foster of Sandy, UT; two great-grandchildren, Stephanie Siera Foster and Patrick James Foster.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary. Memorial services will be held 1:00 p.m. Tuesday at Parker Mortuary with Dr. Craig Tally officiating, after which, the family will receive friends. Private interment will be in Highland Park Cemetery in Pittsburg, KS. Memorial contributions may be made to First Community Church of Joplin.