Joseph Keith Jr.

Joseph Barksdale Keith, Jr., 82, died October 31 at Clinton Health Care Center following surgery for a pancreatic carcinoma. He was a lifelong member of Morrison Heights Baptist Church. Born January 22, 1933 to Joseph Barksdale Keith and Earline Avera Keith, Joe was a product of the Jackson Public Schools, including Central High where he played clarinet in the school band. He attended Hinds Junior College, Mississippi College, and Mississippi State College where he played in the marching band. His love of music motivated him to become a member of the New Bourbon Street Jazz Society. Joe enjoyed a multifaceted career. Commencing with work as a bellhop at the King Edward Hotel and as Western Union messenger, he later worked with the State Board of Health; for an oil exploration company; at IBM in New Orleans; as a dance instructor at Arthur Murray's; as a lab technician at UMMC; with the Motor Vehicle Station in Vicksburg; as assistant recreational director at Whitfield; and with the ABC division of the State Tax Commission. Following retirement from that agency, he was motivated to follow his real passion, making and playing the mountain dulcimer and hammered dulcimer. He traveled all over the Southeast with his creations and was privileged to participate in the World's Fair at New Orleans. Joe also appeared in Canada as part of a Louisiana Trade mission. During his travels to craft fairs he garnered many awards as Best of Show and first prizes. His regular showings at the Canton Flea Market and the Chimneyville Crafts Festival sparked local interest in his instruments, and purchasers included people from all over the US as well as foreign nations. Joe was a devoted member and past president of the Craftsmans Guild of Mississippi and was designated a Lifetime Achievement recipient. He devoted many hours to teaching budding musicians. He was frequently interviewed by newspapers, and on radio and TV. An avid Saints fan, he collected many memorabilia and watched their games regularly. Married to Virginia Ward in 1960, the couple had two sons. Preceding Joe in death were his parents; a brother, John; and a beloved son, Joseph Barksdale Keith III (Joey). Survivors include his wife, Virginia; one son, Kevin Ward Keith; granddaughter, Kennedy Grace Keith; a brother, James (Sarah); nephew, Mark Keith; and niece, Katie Keith; His is also survived by numerous cousins. Visitation will be held Tuesday, Nov. 3 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Wednesday, Nov. 4 from 10 a.m. until the service at 11 a.m. in Lakewood Memorial Funeral Home. Interment will follow in Lakewood Memorial Park.