Maureen McKeough

(From Parker Mortuary)

Maureen McKeough, age 74, of Joplin, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 30, 2024, at The Communities of Wildwood in Joplin.

Maureen, daughter of the late James and Thelma “Irene” (Dean) Holian, was born on December 13, 1949, in Bayside, NY. Following high school, Maureen pursued her education earning a nursing degree. Maureen moved to California not long after high school. It was there she met the love of her life, Lawrence “Mac” McKeough. They continued their courtship during Mac’s deployment serving his country in Vietnam. When he returned, they immediately married on April 17, 1971, in Phoenix, AZ. He survives.

Maureen's life was then shaped by her role as a devoted military wife, a commitment that saw her managing the home front with unwavering dedication. Despite the challenges of frequent relocations to various military bases, she became the cornerstone of her family, and an invaluable resource to other military wives, guiding them through the transition into military life with empathy and understanding. Her service to the Red Cross on military bases often had her serving in many capacities where she was always ready to lend a helping hand.

After raising her own children, Maureen wasn’t completely ready for empty nesting, so with her servant’s heart, she dedicated herself into fostering children, often children with medical needs. Maureen's nurturing instincts found their deepest expression in her role as a grandmother. The joy she found in her grandchildren was immeasurable, and she relished every opportunity to be an active part of their lives. A member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, Maureen's involvement in church activities was another testament to her enduring desire to contribute to her community and to share her giving spirit with others.

Survivors include her husband, Lawrence “Mac” McKeough; two sons, Chad McKeough, and wife, Jennifer, of Avondale, AZ, and Robert McKeough, and wife, Kamran, of Joplin; two daughters, Julie Gooch, and husband, Aaron, of Joplin, and Karina McKeough, of Joplin; grandchildren, Liam (Ali), Sinead, Kaitlyn, Abigail, Leah, Parker, River, Wyatt, Robert Jr., and Alexander; one great grandchild, Kennedi; siblings, Jim, Bill, Andrew, Danny, Nan, Jeanne, Mary, Barbara, and spouses; several nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at 10:00 AM at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Joplin, with burial to immediately follow at Osborne Memorial Cemetery in Joplin. The family will receive friends for a time of visitation beginning at 9:00 AM until service time at the church on Wednesday. 

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Maureen to the St. Mary's Catholic School and may be entrusted to the mortuary.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin.