Jan Keith

(From Parker Mortuary)

Janice “Jan” Colene Keith, age 78, of Asbury, MO, passed away on Tuesday, March 5, 2024 at Freeman Hospital in Joplin.

Jan was born on September 27, 1945 in Joplin, MO, to the late union of Eldon and Eileen (Tichenor) Corn. She was a lifetime resident of the Joplin area. She was a high school graduate of Carl Junction. 

Jan married the love of her life, Barry Keith, on April 11, 1965 in Clovis, NM. Together they were blessed with four children and 45 years of marriage before his passing on October 22, 2010. 

She had a beautiful gospel voice and was awarded the Joplin Juco Scholarship for her musical talent. She had a contagious smile and laugh that would light up the room wherever she was. Jan was compassionate and a spitfire all at the same time. She was an avid Pittsburg State Gorilla fan. She owned her own café in Asbury for a period of time before working as the custodial supervisor at PSU. Jan was also part of the legislative committee at PSU. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Jan is survived by her four children, Brian Keith and wife, Rachel, Chris Keith, Dennis Keith, and Cammy McGuire and husband, Brian; four siblings, Beverly Comstock, Sharon Koch and husband, Ron, Joleen “Jo” West and husband, Bill, and Linda Gardner and husband, Mike; 8 grandchildren; and 3 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made out to Pittsburg State University.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 8, 2024 in Parker Mortuary Chapel from 10:00 a.m. until service time.

Memorial services will be held on Friday, March 8, 2024 in Parker Mortuary Chapel at 11:00 a.m. with pastor Jim Bowles officiating.




Funeral arrangements are under the special care and direction of Parker Mortuary.