Born in Lynchburg on November 17, 1940, he was the son of the late Robert Lesley Keyes and Evelyn Martin Keyes. Robert proudly served his country in the United States Navy and later retired from Simplimatic Automation. He was a devoted member of Timberlake Baptist Church, where he lived out his strong faith and service to others.
In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 57 years, Jacqualin Kidd Keyes; two brothers, Billy Keyes and Melvin Keyes; and his sister, Frances Lewis.
He is survived by his children, Shelly Gregg and husband Jimmy of Bedford, Todd Keyes of Bedford, and Barry Keyes of Lynchburg. He is also survived by his four grandchildren, Holley Velek (Philip), Megan Chen (David), Cameron Gregg (Tamie), and Hannah-Grace Keyes; five great-grandchildren; two bonus grandchildren, Bryson Witt and Jordan Arrington; and two brothers, Aubrey Keyes (Janie) of Lynchburg and Sonny Keyes of Rustburg.
A service celebrating Robert’s life and faith will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at Whitten Timberlake Chapel with Pastor Larry Brodie officiating. Interment will follow at Virginia Memorial Park, where military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post 16.
The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org.
Robert Wesley Keyes will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His legacy of faith, love, and service will continue to inspire those he leaves behind.
