Jerry E. McKeen

Jerry Edward McKeen, 84, of Lake Floyd, WV passed away peacefully on Saturday August 22, 2026. Jerry was born in Clarksburg, WV on October 22, 1941, to Samuel “Sam” Barnes McKeen and Mary Elizabeth (Martin) McKeen.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Nancy McIntyre and his son, Timothy Frederick McKeen. Jerry is survived by his wife of 60 years, Julie Lee (Goff) McKeen and four children; Jerry McKeen of Des Moines, IA; Colin (Kelly) McKeen of Corpus Christi, TX; Marianne (Donny) Hawkins of Stonewood, WV and Martin McKeen of Charleston, WV; his grandson, Sam; and many beloved cousins, nephews, nieces and friends across the country.

A graduate of Victory High School’s class of 1959, Jerry earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Fairmont State College and a master’s degree in education from Penn State University in 1968.

Shortly after completing his graduate studies, Jerry began a distinguished career in education in Harrison County, WV. He started as an English teacher at the former Victory High School in Adamston. He later became Assistant Principal at Liberty High School when it opened in 1971.

Following a brief tenure in the same position at Rosevelt-Wilson High School, he returned to Liberty as the Assistant Principal. He concluded his career as Principal of South Harrison High School, serving in that role until his retirement in 2004.

Beyond education, Jerry was a dedicated advocate for the performing arts, particularly community theater. While attending Fairmont State College, he performed with the Masquers and participated in the renowned Town and Gown Summer Theatre. He carried that passion throughout his professional life, directing community theater productions in Clarksburg, including The Fantasticks, The King and I, Guys and Dolls, and The Music Man, as well as numerous high school productions. Even in retirement, he continued sharing his love of theater and teaching with many others.

Jerry enjoyed cheering for West Virginia University football and basketball, especially when surrounded by family as they rooted together for Mountaineer victories. Beyond sports, he cared deeply about social justice causes that he believed would make the world a better and more equitable place. He was active in the Harrison County Democratic Party, contributing through administrative work, writing, advocacy, and participation in activities and demonstrations supporting issues about which he was passionate.

Above all else, Jerry treasured time spent with his family. He was a constant source of love, encouragement, and support for his wife, children, and grandson. Whether the focus was academics, athletics, clubs, community activities, personal interests, or simply spending a quiet day at Lake Floyd, Jerry remained a positive and reassuring presence, always helping others see the good that could come from any situation.

Jerry was also an avid reader, a lover of movies, crossword puzzles, and board games, and he had a special fondness for dogs, especially a beloved Labrador, Yogi.

Family and friends will call at the Amos Carvelli Funeral Home, 201 Edison Street, Nutter Fort, on Monday from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A prayer service will be held at 7:30 p.m. to conclude the visitation. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 126 E Pike Street, Clarksburg on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at 10:00am with Father Freddie D’Souza as Celebrant. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Expressions of sympathy may be extended to the family at www.amoscarvelli.com A service of Amos Carvelli Funeral Home.