Alton Bruce Keen

He faithfully served the United States Army for 20 years, rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant (E-6). His career centered on the technical specialty of computer and machine operations, a field requiring precision, adaptability, and reliability. His decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NCO Professional Development Ribbon, and the Army Good Conduct Medal (8th Award). After retiring, Bruce made his home in Blythewood, South Carolina, where he enjoyed gardening, traveling, and spending time with the people he loved. His humor remained gentle, his presence steady and reassuring, and his kindness showed itself in countless small, thoughtful gestures.

He was preceded in death by his father, James Ray Keen; his mother, Frances Sheppard Keen; his brother, Michael Gordon Keen; and his longtime friend, Joe Hagen. He is survived by his sister, Robin Gilbert, and his brother-in-law, Dennis Gilbert; his niece and nephews Kevin (wife Kim Hodges and son Brian), John (wife Lisa Lindsey and son Carter), and Dr. Andrea Gilbert (husband Benny Bologna and daughter Ava); his adopted nephew-son, Darren Bailey; and his adopted great-niece and goddaughter, Caroline Bailey.

He will be deeply missed by the many people whose lives he touched.

A graveside service will be held at Elmwood Cemetery, located at 501 Elmwood Ave, Columbia, SC, 29201. The service is scheduled for December 11, 2025, at 2:00 pm.