Dewayne Keeland

Gerald “Dewayne” Keeland, beloved husband and father, went to heaven on May 15, 2021, surrounded by his loving family and his favorite music. He was born in Carr Lane, Missouri, to Ted and Leota (Wise) Keeland on January 29, 1939, and attended school in Blue Eye, Missouri. It was while serving in the Army National Guard that he met his good friend, Pete Lynn. One fateful night, Dewayne and Pete made a deal that Dewayne would introduce Pete to a friend from Blue Eye, Carolyn, and Pete would introduce Dewayne to his younger sister, Carole. The plan was a great success as both marriages lasted over 60 years.
Dewayne worked hard to provide his family with everything they needed and for many years he worked multiple jobs. He ultimately retired after 42 years as a Federal meat inspector with the USDA. He was a man who could fix anything and enjoyed taking care of his beautiful yard. Before his health declined, Dewayne loved boating at the lake, fishing, and going to country music concerts. He also loved the Razorbacks and the Dallas Cowboys. In his 25 year struggle with MS, he never once complained.
Dewayne is survived by the love of his life, Carole Jean (Lynn); his daughter, Michelle “Shelley” Keeland; his son, Phillip and wife, Amy; and two grandchildren, Jordan and Brooke. He is also survived by brother-in-law, Jerry Lynn; sister-in-law, Carolyn Lynn; and eight nieces and nephews who adored their Uncle Dewayne. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Anita; his father- and mother-in-law, Dolen and Vera Belle Lynn; sister-in-law, Clarice; and his friend and brother-in-law, Harold “Pete” Lynn.
A private family memorial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the National MS Society, the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, or The Tribute of Life foundation supporting hospice patients.
“Alexa, play Conway Twitty . . . "