James Wiley McKeehan

James Wiley McKeehan, age 90, of Tampa, Florida passed away on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at home surrounded by his loving family. James was born September 28, 1934 in Knoxville, Tennessee, the son of Ralph and Katherine McKeehan.

At the age of 18 months old, Jim moved to Florida to live with his Aunt and Uncle, Thelma and Joe Mateo, who loved and cared for him as their own son. He attended schools in Hillsborough County, graduating from Jefferson High School. After High School, Jim joined the United States Coast Guard, and served two years before separating from the service. He then enrolled in Florida State University, where he completed two years of higher education. Upon returning home to Tampa, he went to work with his Aunt and Uncle, working for Rest Haven Memorial Park Cemetery. While working there he met his wife Vivian and began pursuing a career in the Fire Service. He was married to Vivian on Oct 15, 1958 and began his career as a Firefighter with Tampa Fire Rescue on April 1, 1959. After a 21 year career with the Fire Department, Jim retired on September 30, 1980. He continued to work for and eventually own Rest Haven Memorial Park and actively worked there for over 68 years. Affectionately known as "Papa" by all his grandchildren, Jim's love for people and service to the community will be remembered by all who knew him.

James was preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Katherine McKeehan; Aunt Thelma and Uncle Joe Mateo; his sister, Barbara Cruso; brother, Bobby McKeehan and grandson, Johnny Vilches.

Survivors include his loving wife of 66 years, Vivian McKeehan; daughter, Lynda Vilches (Johnny); sons, Tim McKeehan (Nan) and Jay McKeehan (Jenni); grandchildren, Stephen, Brandy, Amber, Matthew, Jennifer, Taylor, Ben, Zack and Steven; and great-grandchildren, Devon, Julia, Sierra, Evan, Bradley, Brooke and Trey.

Visitation will be held Monday, March 10, 2025 from 10am - 11am followed by a funeral service beginning at 11am at the Blount & Curry, Terrace Oaks Chapel, 12690 N. 56th Street, Temple Terrace, Florida 33617. Interment at Myrtle Hill Memorial Park, 4202 E. Lake Ave, Tampa, Florida 33610.