Eddie Maurice Keel

Eddie Keel, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2026, at the age of 88, with his family lovingly by his side at Novant Presbyterian Medical Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. Born on May 30, 1938, in Scotland Neck, North Carolina, Eddie was the cherished son of the late Blanche and Roger Keel. 

Eddie's life was a tapestry of love, dedication, and service. He grew up on a farm in Scotland Neck and loved telling his grandchildren stories about his farm experiences, from milking the cows, to tending to the chickens to eating fresh peaches from the peach trees. He graduated from Scotland Neck High School in 1956 and pursued higher education with determination, earning an associate degree from East Carolina University, followed by a bachelor's degree in accounting from Benjamin Franklin University (now George Washington University) in Washington, D.C. His commitment to his country was evident in his six years of service with the Army National Guard and Reserves from 1960 to 1966. 

In May 1961, Eddie married his high school sweetheart, Sylvia Uzzell, with whom he had two wonderful children, Jeffrey Maurice and Deborah Susan. After divorce in 1978, Eddie found love again and married Joan Rooney in May 1980, expanding his family with stepchildren John Rooney and Jennifer Kim. Eddie was a devoted family man, whose pride in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was boundless. He is survived by his loving wife, Joan, children Jeffrey Keel (Wendy), Deborah Venn (Mark), stepchildren John Rooney (Sheila), and Jennifer Kim, as well as seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He was the oldest of six siblings including late Bobbie Jean Edwards; Pete Keel, Bettie Sorie, Sarah Ivey, and Jo Annę Jones, survive him, alongside a legacy of love and cherished memories. 

Eddie's professional journey was marked by integrity and excellence. He served as a Controller and Vice President for Quality Inn Hotels before embarking on a successful 45-year career in real estate, where he formed deep and lasting friendships. His generous spirit was evident through his service as a deacon and on the Finance Committee for ten years at First Baptist Church of Laurel, Maryland. Additionally, Eddie devoted many years to community service through the Kiwanis Club of Laurel, Maryland. He served as President of the club during 1984–1985 and was later elected Lieutenant Governor of Division 14 of the Capital District Kiwanis for 1988–1989. In these leadership roles, he worked with Kiwanis clubs throughout the region to promote volunteerism, support programs benefiting children, and strengthen local communities in keeping with the Kiwanis motto, “Serving the Children of the World.” As recognition of his enduring dedication and impactful local leadership, the Kiwanis Club of Laurel bestowed upon him the prestigious Life Membership from the Capital District Kiwanis Foundation in 1985. 

An avid fisherman, Eddie enjoyed surf fishing in the Outer Banks and the excitement of the White Marlin Tournament in Ocean City, Maryland. His passion for gardening was evident in the bountiful harvests of tomatoes and cucumbers he lovingly tended. Eddie was also a fan of sports, and he especially loved cheering on the Washington Commanders NFL team and the Cleveland Guardians MLB team. Eddie's sweet tooth was legendary, with a particular fondness for chocolate-covered cherries, banana pudding, key lime pies and peach milkshakes from ChickFil-A. 

Eddie was a man of gentle kindness and unwavering patience. His warmth and genuine interest in others endeared him to all who crossed his path. He treasured hearing about his grandchildren's lives and celebrated their every achievement. 

A celebration of life with military honors will be held on August 22, 2026, at John and Sheila Rooney’s residence in Waxhaw, NC. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff at Novant Presbyterian Medical Center for their compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Eddie's memory to Tunnel to Towers Foundation or the National Kidney Foundation. Eddie's presence in our lives was a blessing, and his memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.