Raymond Reddell Keese's Obituary
Raymond Reddell Keese, 80, departed this life for greater glory on March 4, 2026, after a short illness. Raymond was born May 29, 1945, in Longview, Texas to Clarence P. and Grace R. Keese.
Raymond was a 1963 graduate of Longview High School. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Austin College in Sherman, Texas, and a Master of Arts degree from Northwestern State University of Louisiana in Natchitoches, Louisiana. Raymond spent his entire career in education. He taught Latin and math at Longview High School before becoming a counselor and media director at Spring Hill High School. He retired from Spring Hill Independent School District in 2000.
Raymond was a history enthusiast, especially world conflicts, specifically both World Wars and the American Civil War. He was an avid reader with an extensive book library. As a media enthusiast, he had a substantial DVD and record library. Raymond was disciplined in all aspects of his life. He was an avid runner who ran every morning before sunrise regardless of the weather.
Raymond was devoted to caring for his parents. His mother Grace lived with him after the death of her second husband. Raymond was a member of First Methodist Church in Longview.
Raymond is survived by his brother William C. Keese and wife Sharon Shelton Keese, and his two stepbrothers William Abney and wife Anne in Naples, Florida, and Mac Abney and wife Claudia in Marshall, Texas. He is also survived by many nephews and nieces and was a great-uncle to their children. The family greatly appreciates the devoted care provided by his caregiver Debbie Mathis and his housekeeper Maria Alvarez who both treated him like family. Sincere appreciation also goes to accentCare Hospice for their compassionate care.
A visitation will be held at Rader Funeral Home at 1617 Judson Road in Longview on Thursday, March 5, 2026. A graveside service will be held at 2 pm on Friday, March 6, 2026, at Memory Park Cemetery in Longview. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hiway 80 Rescue Mission.
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