Shirley Richardson Keaton

Mrs. Shirley Richardson Keaton passed away peacefully on January 19^th 2024, surrounded by the love of her family. Shirley Ann was born January 15^th 1940, in Oconee County  SC. She was the 3^rd child of the late Mr. Ernest Benson Richardson and Mrs. Ruby Patterson Richardson. Being born into a farming family of 10 brothers and sisters, Shirley’s childhood was filled with love, hard work, and faith. In addition to her parents, Shirley is preceded in her death by her brothers Wallace, Doug (Sonny), Stevie Lee, William, Don and Phil Richardson; Her sister Mary Lou Foster; and her beloved son Rodney Lewis Keaton Jr.

Shirley’s last surviving sibling is her Sister, Patsy Jo Richardson Lynch; who regards her as a truly “awesome” sister.

Shirley was the beloved wife of one man, Rodney Lewis Keaton Sr. (Bill). Bill and Shirley married in 1959 and spent over 64 years generously pouring love and support into their family, Church, and Friends, together. Bill will miss her dearly.

Shirley was the mother of two children. A daughter, Kim Keaton Rice and a son, the late Rodney Lewis Keaton Jr. Shirley lived in the embrace and care of her devoted daughter in the challenging years which preceded her passing.

Shirley was the proud and supportive Grandmother of four Grandchildren. Dr. Rodney Keaton III, Rhett Keaton, Ashland Rice, and Lewis Rice will all remember and miss her dearly. Shirley was the doting Great Grandmother to six Great Grandchildren. Evelyn, Helen, Alice, Addison, Samuel, and Keaton all gave their “Mawmaw” tremendous joy.

Shirley was a cherished member of Mt. Tabor Baptist Church, with whom she worshipped for many years.

A funeral service will be held 12:00 pm, Tuesday, January 23^rd, 2024 at Oconee Memorial Park Mausoleum Chapel. The family will received friends prior to the service at 11:00 am, Tuesday, January 23^rd, 2024 at the Oconee Memorial Park Mausoleum Chapel.