Eleanor Keeton

On January 12th 2024, Eleanor Keeton began her eternal life with her Lord and Maker

as she entered the gates of Heaven. She spent her life preparing for that very moment. Eleanor was born to Robert and Mildred Cooper on August 31, 1932. She attended Meridian High School and attended University of Southern Mississippi. Eleanor, known as “Elco” to those who loved her, was a devoted wife, loving mother to William, adoring grandmother and great grandmother and a loyal friend to many. She spent her life in dedication to the Lord, through acts of service, prayer and worship, and she longed to share the love of Christ with everyone she came in contact with. Among other things, she was known for her quick wit, listening ear and incredible cooking. Centuries from now, history books will write about how a community in Mississippi lived in perfect harmony because of Eleanor Keeton’s homemade rolls. Not alone, she walked this life hand in hand with her husband, Marvin Keeton, for 67 years. Marvin left this world on March 25, 2020. 

Marvin Keeton was born on January 28, 1930 to William and Ora Keeton. He went to Porterville High School and attended Mississippi State University. He was many things but mostly a committed servant to his Lord and Savior. Marvin would move mountains to help those around him. As a craftsman, he used his talent to bless his community, church, family and friends. As a member of the Gideons, he visited prisons, schools, hotels and anywhere else God called him, passing out the familiar Bibles and sharing the gospel.

Both Marvin and Eleanor were a gift to so many. Their dining table was a place known to anyone who needed a friend, a word of wisdom, or a bite to eat, even once to a traveler who was riding horseback across the United States; a story they loved to share. They committed many hours praying for their loved ones, something that didn’t go unnoticed to those of whom they were praying for. They were also dedicated parents and grandparents. One of their greatest joys was spending time with their granddaughters, even when that included watching The Sound of Music on repeat. Marvin and Eleanor were faithful members of Union Methodist Church in Porterville, MS and later Fairview Methodist in Maryville, TN.

Marvin is preceded in death by his brother Everett Keeton and sister in-law, Helen Keeton.

They are survived by their son, William Keeton (Bill), his wife, Lisa Keeton, granddaughters and son in-laws, Christa and Matt Dees, Chelsea and Taylor Robinson, great grandchildren, Keeton Dees, Elsa Kate Dees, Audrey Robinson, Wyatt Dees and Charley Robinson; their niece Kathy McCroskey and nephew Don Keeton. Eleanor will be laid to rest next to her husband at Union United Methodist church on January 26th. The family will have a small graveside service in her honor. Smith Funeral and Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com.