Beech Tree News Network

William Gabe Keen, known to family and friends as Gabe, passed away on Friday, May 15, 2026, at his residence, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, faith, hard work, and a warm sense of humor that touched many lives.

He was born on October 11, 1942, in the Sugar Grove Community of Butler County, Kentucky, and he spent his life rooted in the values of family, community, and service. 

Gabe was a United States Army Veteran, and his service reflected the same sense of duty and responsibility that guided him throughout his life. After his military service, he worked construction, did some automotive work, and farmed. He was a hardworking man who was never afraid to lend a hand, and he took pride in honest labor and in doing whatever needed to be done. 

He was also deeply committed to his faith and church family. Gabe served as an elder and member of Little Muddy Cumberland Presbyterian Church, where his presence was valued and his faith was evident in the way he lived. He was a member of Little Muddy Rural Development since it started in 1957, showing his long-standing dedication to the betterment of his community. 

Gabe found joy in the simple and meaningful things in life. He enjoyed gardening and sharing what he raised, and he took pleasure in farming and mowing. He also had a special gift for bringing smiles to people’s faces, and those who knew him will remember his kind heart and funny nature. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Cora Lee Hatcher Keen, as well as six sisters, Daisy Gale, Maxine Johnson, Donnie Dye, Faye Duncan, Anna Miller, and Peggy Haynes, and four brothers, Windol Keen, Ivan Keen, Wilbur Keen, and Huey Keen. 

Gabe is survived by his wife, Shirley Woosley Keen of Morgantown, Kentucky, whom he married on October 11, 1968. He is also survived by his son, Scott Keen (Laurie) of  Morgantown, Kentucky; his daughter, Donnita Keen Weeks (Sean) of Morgantown, Kentucky; his sister, Martha Franklin of Morgantown, Kentucky; and several nieces and nephews. His family was a source of Great Pride and Joy, and he treasured the time he spent with them.

Funeral services will be held at the Little Muddy Cumberland Presbyterian Church Monday, May 18, 2026 at 1:00pm with Bro. Nathan Eldridge officiating. Burial will be in the Little Muddy Cemetery where Scott Keen, BJ Belcher, Sean Weeks, Danny Dye, Dennis Woosley and Greg Drake II will serve as pallbearers.Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 17, 2026 from 4:00pm - 7:00pm at the Jones Funeral Chapel and Monday 10:00am until funeral time at 1:00pm at Little Muddy Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Memorial contributions may be made to Little Muddy Cumberland Presbyterian Church c/o Joan Keen 1061 Sugar Grove Road  Morgantown , KY 42261. Please share any photos, memories, condolence or light a candle in memory of Gabe at www.jonefuneralchapel.com. Jones Funeral Chapel is honored to be serving the family of William Gabe Keen.