Brian Fontaine Keyes

Brian Keyes of Riverside, CA passed away August 5, 2025.  Born in a thunderstorm in Heidelberg, Mississippi to Lawdes and Freddie Keyes, he was the second born of 5 children. Brian lived a life filled with kindness and dedication to his family, his community, and the Catholic Church.

Brian graduated from Garces Memorial Highschool in Bakersfield, CA and furthered his education by earning a degree in Pharmacy from the University of Wyoming in Laramie, WY. He met his future wife Kathy in 1975 while attending the School of Pharmacy.  They later married at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Bakersfield, California during the summer of 1977.

Brian began his Pharmacy career working for Sav-On Drugs at the Riverside Plaza location. As his family grew with the birth of his first daughter Lindsay, so did his entrepreneurial spirit.  He purchased Community Professional Pharmacy in downtown Riverside and proudly operated it for 45 years. His family expanded with the birth of his second daughter, Jessie. A few years later in 1989, he expanded his business services to include compounding pharmaceuticals, collaborating closely with physicians to provide customized medications not commercially available to patients. 

As an avid learner, Brian later continued his education earning a degree in homeopathy.  He was committed to helping people and his ability to integrate both traditional medications with alternative modalities provided patients holistic healing.  Brian upheld the Pharmacist’s oath throughout his life by his commitment to patients well being and professional excellence.

An avid outdoorsman, he loved immersing himself in nature. He enjoyed woodworking in his spare time, making furniture for family and friends.  He also had a deep appreciation for the history and catechism of the Catholic Church.  He was a devoted member of the Serra Club and a longtime parishioner of St Thomas the Apostle in Riverside, CA.  He lived a life of charity helping those in need.

Brian is survived by his wife of 48 years, Kathy Keyes; his daughters Lindsay (Walt) Becker and Jessie (Joe) Scileppi; six grandchildren, Liam, Wyatt, Willow, Simon, Grace, and Sienna; his brother Mickey Keyes of Houston,TX, sisters Ann Piper of Dallas,TX, Jennifer Reynoso of Eastvale,CA.  He was predeceased by his parents and his sister Susan Crichton. Brian is also blessed with three great-nieces and nephews.

For Services information and times please contact the family direclty.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Serra Club or St Thomas the Apostle Church.