John Keeling, Sr.

John Bruce Keeling, Sr., 84, of Aztec, NM, left his earthly realm to go to his heavenly home July 9, 2019, due to many health complications. He was born November 25, 1934, the second son to the late Lee and Beulah Keeling.

He spent his lifetime in the oilfield retiring after 48 years as District Superintendent for the Northwest Rocky Mountain Basin for Great Western Drilling Company. John enjoyed working with wood and made several great creations of furniture for his home. Whether it was cards, dominoes, dice or just hanging out around the hood of a car he loved being with family and friends. There was never a dull moment when he was around. Giving his children their foundation of faith, he kept love and laughter strong in our family. He was a great inspiration to us all and will be greatly missed.

John is survived by his wife of 65 years, Celestia; sons, Dalton (Shiela) and Roger (Kathy); daughters, Verna Hickman (Charles) and Tonya Betts (Bill); 15 grandkids; 23 great-grandkids; 3 great-great-grandkids; brother, Roy Keeling (Nelda); sister, Marlys Lively and many many numerous nieces and nephews. He is met at the gates of heaven by his parents; son, John Bruce, Jr.; daughter, Jamie; granddaughter, Natashia; grandson, Cody; brother Larry; and son-in-law, Charles Hickman, and his grandson Bobby James.

A memorial luncheon will be held Saturday, July 20, 2019, at Bethel Baptist Church, 201 Heiland Rd, Aztec, NM at 2:00 pm. It is our hope and prayer that you, as family and friends, will come and share your memories and life about this loving man…a great husband, awesome father and the best grandfather.