John Robert Keely

John Robert Keely, age 66, of Purcell, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Tuesday, November 19, 2024. He was born on May 7, 1958, the oldest of five children, to Alvin and Donna (Wilson) Keely. John attended Wanette High School where he excelled in the Future Farmers of America raising prize-winning livestock including Harold the hog, more of family pet than he planned. He and his siblings lived country life to the fullest on their 80-acre homestead at the end of Flat Armadillo Road. They raised black and tan coon hounds, once boasting as many as 37 at one time. He enjoyed trail rides on horseback, weenie roasts down by the river and community coon hunts in the bottom 40 acres. He was a talented leather worker and welder as a young man when the rodeo came calling. He answered first as a bull rider and later as a daring rodeo clown. On September 7, 1984, John married his best friend and life partner, Tajuana Morrow. Together, they shared 40 years of marriage and raised four wonderful children. John was a self-employed General Contractor with a passion for building. He proudly served as the General Contractor in the construction of ACE Hardware and Conoco North in Purcell. Known for his work ethic, he gave his all to every project he took on. John cherished spending time with his family, especially his wife, children, and grandchildren. He enjoyed hunting with Tajuana, watching OSU football, and singing in the church choir. John was an active member of the First Baptist Church in Lexington and Landmark Church in Purcell. He loved traveling, with his favorite vacation being a trip to the Grand Canyon. He also appreciated quiet moments on long rides with his dog, "Buck," sharing coffee and stories. Though John had a serious demeanor, often called the Judge by his family, he had a soft spot for those he loved, and his affection was truly something special. John was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Donna Keely, and his best four-legged friend, "Buck." He is survived by his wife, Tajuana Keely of the home; his children, Jason Keely and wife Melissa of California, Aaron Keely and wife Samantha of California, Amy Messere and husband Christian of California, and Chad Morrow of Purcell; his brother, Hoot Keely and wife Margie of Wayne; his sisters, Christine Vallance and husband Chris of Missouri, Monty Jeanne Keely of Guymon, and Cindy Jan Burchfield and husband Kevin of Alaska; his precious grandchildren, Liam Keely, Amelia Keely, Austin Keely, Preston Marshall, Kinsley Marshall, Alyssa Keely, Sage Launer, Sebastian Messere, and Maggie Rose Witten. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday, November 22, 2024, at 2:00 PM at the First Baptist Church in Lexington.

John Robert Keely

May 7, 1958 - November 19, 2024