William Henry Keesler

William worked hard throughout his life, spending many years with Charlotte Concrete, serving the City of Charlotte for 17 years, and later working 10 years with Dean Rowell Grading. A longtime member of Mint Hill Baptist Church, he was also a former member of the Pee Dee Hunt Club. His life reflected steady devotion—to his work, his faith, and the people who counted on him.

Those who knew William best describe him as a simple man with a sharp wit and a gift for laughter. He loved hunting and NASCAR racing and was a huge Dale Earnhardt fan. In his younger days one of his favorite hobbies was racing go-carts. He was proudly known for having one of the fastest carts around, and won many trophies along the way. He found deep satisfaction in working in his shop, building and repairing things, with a special talent for small engine repairs. Kind and helpful, William was always willing to lend a hand, and just as ready to lighten the moment with a joke or a well-timed prank.

William also loved the mountains, bluegrass music, chewing tobacco, chocolate cake, and Coca Cola—simple pleasures that suited him well and brought him joy. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 63 years, Barbara Bates Keesler, and he loved his family deeply. In the end, William was a hardworking man whose body was tired and worn from a life fully lived.

William is survived by his wife, Barbara Bates Keesler; his children, Phil (Laraine) Keesler, David (Anne) Keesler, and Dana Keesler Pate; his grandchildren, Colton & Baylie Pate, Hunter Cochran, and Aundrea Hernandez; his great-grandchildren, Maria and Michael Hernandez and Aubry Bartlett; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Blanche and Willie Keesler, and his sister, Edith Keesler Davis.

The family would like to thank all of the nurses & doctors in the ICU at Carolinas Medical Center - Atrium Health, for their excellent care of William for the 6 weeks he was there.

Family will receive friends at Mint Hill Baptist Church, 7835 Matthews-Mint Hill Rd, Mint Hill, NC 28227, on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. Funeral Service will follow at 12:00 pm. Interment will take place at Sunset Memory Gardens, 8901 Lawyers Rd, Mint Hill, NC 28227.