Lawrence Burton Keesler

Larry Keesler, 82, died peacefully at his home in Mount Airy on June 15 following a year-long bout with cancer. He was born in Lansing, MI to Rev. Donald and Arleta Simons Keesler. At age 11 Larry began playing the piano and organ for worship services and continued to bless congregations and community groups with his unique musical gifts until his illness. He studied at Moody Bible Institute and the American Conservatory of Music in Chicago. He served as Minister of Music at First Baptist Church, Kernersville; First Baptist Church, Mount Airy; and Trinity Episcopal Church, Mount Airy.

Larry was pre-deceased by his parents, his brother Melvyn and his in-laws Clarence and Maria Nash. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Rebecca Nash Keesler; his brother Garth (Carol), Huntsville, AL; sister-in-law Shirley Keesler, Grand Ledge, MI; brothers-in-law Berkley Nash (Suzanne), Chapel Hill, NC; and Wyatt Nash (Lisa), Chesapeake, VA; many nieces and nephews; and a host of dear friends who became family.

The funeral service will be held at First Baptist Church, Mount Airy, at 3:00, on Sunday, June 19, led by Rev. Sarah Carper Morris and Rev. Jay Meadows. Visitation will be prior to the service in the Fireside Room, 2:00 – 3:00. The service may be viewed remotely at www.fbcmountairy.org 

The family would like to express special appreciation to the extended team at Mount Valley Hospice, especially Beth, Penny, Darien and Joseph; and to Candi Gunter and her caring team at Live Long Well Care – Liz, Olivia, Bobbie and Jessie. Their tender care along with the support of friends and family have made this past year a gift and a blessing.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Trinity Episcopal Church, PO Box 1043, Mount Airy; the Organ Fund at First Baptist Church, 714 N. Main Street, Mount Airy; or Mountain Valley Hospice and Palliative Care, 1427 Edgewood Drive, Suite 101, Mount Airy.  Moody Funeral Services is assisting the family.  Online condolences may be made at moodyfuneralservices.com