Ernest D’Elmer Keel

Ernest D‘Elmer Keel, age 77, of Water Valley, MS passed from this life Monday, May 9, 2022, at his home with family by his side. He was born May 24, 1944, in Banner, MS to the late Raymond and Margie (Terry) Keel. Ernest was a down to earth kind of man who was brought up knowing the value of hard work. He began working at an early age as a laborer at a local saw mill. He then went to work at Big Yank in Water Valley where he would become shipping and receiving clerk. A job he would hold for over thirty-five years. In September of 1974, He would marry the love of his life, Sandra Bonner and start their family. When not working, Ernest found enjoyment in simple activities, such as hunting, fishing, gardening, raising flowers, as well as playing the guitar and piano. Ernest was a member of Pilgrim's Rest Baptist Church.

Visitation is planned for Wednesday, May 11, 2022, in the Gardiner Room at Seven Oaks Funeral Home from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM . Services will immediately follow at 2:00 PM in the Henry Chapel of Seven Oaks with Bro. Roger Howell officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Water Valley.

Ernest is survived by one son, Johnny Lee Ware, JR, of Courtland, MS; three daughters, Karen Kilpatrick (Timothy), Angie Gentry all of Water Valley, MS, Sharon Ware (Kevin Kramer) of Strayhorn, MS; one sister, ILa Mae Keel of Derma, MS; twelve grandchildren; and twelve great-grandchildren.

As well as his parents, Ernest was preceded in death by his wife of thirty-two years, Sandra Keel.