John L. Keith

John L. Keith, age 85, of Floyds Knobs, Indiana, passed away on Saturday, November 2, 2024. He was born on October 8, 1939, in New Albany, Indiana, to the late Robert and Hazel Keith. John attended New Albany High School and proudly served in the United States Army after the Korean War. He worked for Frank Monroe Heating & Cooling and later retired from the New Albany Housing Authority.

Along with his parents, John was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 49 years, Dolores Baumgardner Keith; his daughters, Debra Ramsey and Cathy Kleinsmith; his sisters, Doris Keith, Wanda Johnson (Jerry); and his daughter-in-law, Joy Fetz.

John found joy in playing euchre with his family, friends from Azalea Hills Assisted Living, and anyone who shared his love for the game. He also enjoyed Texas Hold’em, shooting pool, and especially playing golf. His happiest times were spent with family & friends, being outdoors, listening to country music, and enjoying the simple pleasure of a meal at the White Castle or Wendy’s drive-thru.

A defining moment in John’s life was attending a Billy Graham Crusade at the RCA Dome in Indianapolis on June 4, 1999. There, he went forward and was led through the prayer of salvation by Billy Graham himself—a memory he often shared, knowing Jesus as his Lord and Savior.

John is survived by his siblings and children: brother Joe Keith (Pam), sister Roberta Eckart (Pat), daughters Melissa Hall Meurer and Doris Keith Hampton (Wayne); son-in-law Steve Kleinsmith; son James Fetz; grandchildren Chris Kleinsmith, Debbie Ramsey, Kristina Ramsey, Tonya Higginbottom (Lucas), Lesley Lowery (Nick), Theo Cotner, Garrett Cotner, Carson Cotner, Casey Cotner, Ava Hampton, Zach Hampton; eight great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A celebration of John’s life will be held on Thursday, November 7, 2024, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Kraft Funeral Service, 2776 Charlestown Road, New Albany, Indiana 47150. John will be laid to rest in a private family ceremony at a later date at Kraft-Graceland Memorial Park, New Albany, IN.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:

Choices Life Resource Center

2656 Charlestown Road

New Albany, Indiana 47150

John’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate nursing staff at Azalea Hills Assisted Living, (Cassie, Shiela, Amy, Teresa, Elizabeth, Sharon, Beth, Alicia, Juanita and Melissa) who made John’s final years so meaningful. Their kindness and attentive care were a tremendous comfort to him and his family. Special thanks to Erica Ehringer and Sharon Cash for going above and beyond, providing support that went beyond just caregiving—they became like family to John. Their love and patience brought him joy, and they will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who knew him.