Richard Keating

Richard Levell Keating was found passed away at his home in Candler, NC on November 1, 2019 at the age of 64.

Richard was preceded in death by his beloved brother, Larry Allen Keating, his mother, Alma Taylor Singleton and father, Buell Levell Keating.

He is survived by three sisters, Diane Keating Brown of Raleigh, NC, Jeri Singleton Rogers of Kershaw, SC and Debra Keating Pyle of Mount Olive, NC     He's lovingly remembered by his nephew, Cicero, and nieces, Melissa, Brittany, Lauren, Hannah and Ashley.   Two son's are believed to survive Richard as well. They are Richard Keating, Jr. and Michael King.

Richard was born in South Haven, MI but grew up in Greenville, NC.  He attended J H Rose High School.  As a young man he played football and baseball but enjoyed all sports activities.  He was a hard worker even in his youth earning money mowing lawns.  He made friends easily and has never met a stranger.  As an adult he became a chef for various restaurants and was the innovator of some restaurant practices we all enjoy today.   After becoming disabled he still enjoyed cooking and was absolutely the best cook in our family.

Besides cooking great food, Richard found inner peace and happiness when he was able to help others.  Whether it be by simply making them laugh or smile, cooking for the hungry, giving them the shirt off his back or even his last dollar, he was happiest when he felt he had made a positive difference in someones life.   He managed to accomplish that almost every single day in his recent years.

When Richard himself was in need of a helping hand himself years ago, Homeward Bound of Western, NC essentially became his family, helped him and stood by him when he had no where else to turn.  We are so extremely grateful for their help to our Ricky that we are asking in lieu of flowers please send donations in Richard's honor to: Homeward Bound of Western, NC, PO Box 1166, Asheville, NC 28802

A memorial service and remembrance of Richard's life will be held at a later date, to be announced, at his sister, Debra Pyle's, home at 115 Fields Drive,  Mt. Olive, NC 29365.   Condolences can also be sent to that address.  There will be a "time capsule" prepared with momentos, special stories, photo's, poems, etc in Richard's memory.   Anyone who can't attend the service, please mail your item and/or remembrance for the time capsule to that same address.  It will be buried at an undisclosed location, hopefully, to be found by someone years from now and be remembered again.   After the service, Richard's request to have his ashes spread at a  certain "special place"  will be honored by the family.

His presence will be sorely missed by many.....

"He is just away.."