Jerry T. Keel

Jerry Tolbert Keel was born in San Angelo, TX on February 9, 1939, and left this earth to join the Lord on August 8, 2025. Jerry was the youngest of 5 children and was an identical twin. The birth of James and Jerry Keel was broadcast nationally on the Paul Harvey Show for being the largest twins on record. Each weighing over 8 lbs., they collectively weighed 17 lbs. and 2 oz. Their petite mother had no idea she was having twins. Living in a small town, their father often worked away from home, so James, Jerry and their mother listened to sports on the radio in their free time. This is where Jerry’s love of baseball began. At that time, the Brooklyn Dodgers was his favorite team.

Jerry was a graduate of Clifton High School in 1958 when he left home to attend Howard Payne University. There he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree with a triple major in Secondary Education, History and Physical Education. Howard Payne is also where he met the love of his life, and wife of 62 years, Carol Ann Mullin (Ann) of Irving, TX.

Jerry began his teaching career in Knox City, TX in 1962. Jerry and Ann were then married in Irving, TX on June 22, 1963. Following their nuptials and a short honeymoon, he started as a history teacher, and later also a coach, at Irving High School. In 1969, Jerry earned his Master of Education from North Texas State University, which he earned while teaching, coaching, starting a family, and holding numerous other jobs during the summer breaks.

Jerry was an educator for 12 years until one summer break when he took a job helping out a friend by selling copiers. He quickly realized he had a gift for building relationships, and this led him into the commercial Printing Industry in 1975. He had a distinguished 41-year career in Printing Sales where he won numerous Salesperson of the Year awards. He also donated his time and resources to numerous charity organizations, such as the American Cancer Society.

Jerry was an avid golfer who played at courses around the country. His favorite course was Pebble Beach, and he was also a long-time member of Raveneaux Country Club. Jerry also had a love for cars, watches and the Houston Astros. His two most important “jobs” in his retirement years included taking care of his wife of 62 years and his two grand dogs, Bella and Lily.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Ann Keel, and two children Brian Keel (Kristin) and Melinda Ottmer (Troy); Twin Brother, James Keel, and sister, Pat Bass (R.O.); Grandchildren, Alexa Wehrung (Harlan), Cameron Keel (Gabby), Colby Harper, Joshua Ottmer (Hannah), Grace Ottmer (Zach) and Jacob Ottmer; Great Grandchildren, Elijah Thomas, Riley Wehrung and Rogan, Malakai and Johnnie Ottmer; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Jerry was preceded in death by G.R. Keel, Cora Lee Keel, G.R. Keel Jr. and Ruby Crook.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, September 6th, 2025, from 1-4 PM at Ciro’s Italian Grill, 9755 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX 77024. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation or a charity close to your heart.