Benny Keyes

Benny W. Keyes, Jr. went to be with his Lord July 9, 2011 at UMC. He was born in Jackson, MS on September 19, 1951. Visitation will be at Raymond Road Baptist Church 5 to 8 PM Tuesday, July 12, 2011. Visitation will be Wednesday morning at the church from 9 AM until the service at 10 AM.\ \ He is survived by his loving wife, Beverly Keyes; his daughter Christy & Jason Norville; his son Shaun & Tiffany Keyes; his step-daughter Beth & Tracy McAlister; grandchildren Allie & Bailey Watson, Zoe & Zayn Keyes and Kenzie, Kaylee & Kylie McAlister; sisters, Dot Keyes and Pam Blackall; and nieces and nephews.\ \ He was preceded in death by his parents, Ben W. and Nell Keyes; wife, Scherry; and Father-in-law Eddie Peusch.\ \ Benny was a man that never met a stranger and was full of love for his Lord, family, and friends. He always had a smile on his face and joy in his heart for all he met. His faith stood first and foremost in all that he did at church, work, or at home. Benny's life was a testimony to his Lord.\ \ He was with the Hinds County Tax Assessors office from 1971 until his retirement in December of 2010 as the chief deputy. He was dedicated to his profession and was well known and respected across the state.\ \ He also faithfully and proudly served his country for 20 years in the United States Marine Corps.\ \ After 32 years apart, he reconnected with his first love from high school and they have spent the last 8 years sharing happiness. He cherished not only Beverly, but her family as well and was looking forward to many more years together.\ \ Pallbearers will be Tracy McAlister, Cain Underwood, Phillip Underwood, Bubba Wilson, Shanehan Westphal, and Matthew Peusch. The Raymond Road Baptist Church Deacons that have served with Benny will act as Honorary Pallbearers.\ \ The world's loss today has been heaven's gain.\ \ In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Raymond Road Baptist Church future building fund or Disabled American Veterans.\