Birth Date: 07/26/1935
Deceased Date: 07/28/2024
Smithfield – Rebecca Ann Whitley Keen, age 89, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, July 28, 2024, in the SECU Hospice House of Smithfield. Born, July 26, 1935, in Johnston County, she was the daughter of the late Alton Whitley and Irene Coats Whitley. She is preceded in death by her husband, Roy T. Keen and her brother, Eugene Whitley.
Rebecca was a lifelong member of Pisgah Baptist Church in Smithfield. She played an active role in church leadership and activities. From Sunday School to church librarian. She served in many capacities. Rebecca was a lifelong caregiver as well, to so many of her family members, she cared for anyone in need. Rebecca retired from the Wilson’s Mills Elementary School cafeteria in 1987 and became a full-time grandmother. She loved her grandkids and great-grandkids. Rebecca will be greatly missed by her family and friends.
Funeral services will be conducted on Friday, August 2, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Pisgah Baptist Church in Smithfield with the burial to follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service beginning at 10:00 a.m.
Rebecca is survived by her children; Pam Keen of Smithfield, Karen Casey of Smithfield, Brenda Sasser (Steve) of Smithfield, Terry Keen (Kim) of Clayton, brother, Everette Whitley (Hilda) of Havelock, sister-in-law, Pat Hill (Phil) of Hillsborough, brother-in-law, Worth Hill of Durham, grandchildren; Hanna Keel (Morgan), Ethan Bryant (Gabby), Taylor Sasser, Jessi Kyle (John), Kyle Casey, Matt Nash, Jacob Nash (Erin), great-grandchildren; Annaleigh Keel, Abigail Keel, Bryson Williams, Walker Williams, Kayden Kyle, Kensley Kyle, Kolby Kyle, Jackson Nash, as well as a special family friend, Lawrence Thompson of WV.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Pisgah Baptist Church, Missions fund at, 3689 NC-210, Smithfield, NC 27577.
