Kieth Gillen

(From Parker Mortuary)

Kieth Claude Gillen, age 85, of Joplin passed away on Thursday, October 17, 2024 at Wildwood Assisted Living.

Kieth was born February 24, 1939 in Lockwood, MO to the late union of Hershel and Rosalie (Williams) Gillen. He grew up in the Golden City area and graduated from Lockwood High School in 1957. 

Shortly after graduating he joined the United States Air Force and served his country faithfully for 20 years. He married Nancy Clabough on January 15, 1962 in Greenfield, MO. Together they were blessed with 62 years of marriage before Kieth’s passing. 

While in the Air Force, they lived in Germany from 1973 to 1976 as well as Okinawa during the Vietnam War. He enjoyed playing his guitar for his family and making all sorts of different crafts while woodworking. He was a member of the Wellspring Church in Webb City as well as a part of their worship team. Kieth was a social man and loved fellowshipping with his brothers in Christ over breakfast occasionally. He loved most of all being a “papa” and “grandpa” to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Kieth was preceded in death by his identical twin, Kennth Gillen.

Kieth is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Gillen; son, Greg Gillen; two granddaughters, Tiffany Jones and husband, Joshua and Samantha Ballard and husband, Kenny; five great-grandchildren, London, Israel, Kason, Raylinn, and Boyd; and one sister, Bobbie Deems.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made out to the Wellspring Church.

Services are pending.

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