William Elbridge Keyes

William Elbridge Keyes, 80, died Thursday, December 17, 2009 in a local hospital. Bill was born on January 21, 1929 in Chattanooga, TN to the late Oliver Ransom Keyes and Willie Gamble Keyes. In 1947, Bill moved from Cleveland to Michigan. Bill served in the US Army from 1953 until 1955 and rose to the rank of Sergeant. Following his military service, Bill returned to Michigan and continued his career as a butcher. Bill resided in Pontiac, Michigan, where he purchased a grocery store which he owned and operated for many years until his retirement in 1996. Following his retirement, Bill returned to Cleveland, TN. Bill enjoyed golf with his many friends during his retirement and was an excellent pool player. At points in his life, he owned and cared for horses and was an avid horse racing enthusiast. Bill possessed a great sense of humor and a dry wit. Bill was of the Methodist faith. He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Ann Marie Keyes; and two sisters, Margaret Waller Hill and Muriel Keyes Bivens. He is survived by his three nieces, Linda Waller Watson, Sarah Bivens Hobbs, and Kay Bivens Keldorph; a nephew, Pat Bivens; and a special great niece and nephew, Tara Watson Brown and John Steen Watson. Also, he is survived by his lifelong special friend, Joe Ben Chase. The family will receive friends from 11- 12:30 on Saturday, December 19 at Fike Funeral Home with a graveside memorial service to follow at 1:00 PM. The service will be led by Tom Moncrief. Interment will be at Hilcrest Memorial Garden with military honors. A white dove release ceremony will conclude the service. Memorial donations may be to the made charitable organization of the donor's choice. We invite you to send a message of condolence and view the Keyes family guestbook at www.fikefh.com.