Robert Edward “Bud” Keel

Mr. Robert Edward Keel “Bud”, 81, died Wednesday, May 20, 2026, in Oxford, MS. The funeral service will be Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 2:00 P.M. in the Chapel of Waller Funeral Home with Rev. Bobby Snow officiating. Visitation will be held in West Hall at Waller Funeral Home prior to the service beginning at 12:00 P.M.

Bud was born in Oxford, MS on February 14, 1945 to Robert and Mary Henson Keel. After graduating from University High School, he proudly served with the National Guard and began a longtime career with the United States Postal Service.

Bud married the love of his life, Patsy Meherg “Pat” Keel, and together they shared forty-six years of marriage filled with love. They were well known for owning and operating Abby’s Irish Rose, affectionately known as “The Abby”, remembered by many as “the only place to go in the 70’s”. A passionate NASCAR fan, Bud loved the thrill of amateur drag racing and took great pride in working and maintaining his muscle cars. He was an avid fisherman who spent countless happy hours fishing throughout Sardis Lake and also enjoyed playing golf. A die-hard fan of all Ole Miss athletics, Bud watched as many games as he could, preferring football, while appreciating basketball and baseball. Bud had a special place in his heart for his beloved Great Danes and Jack Russell Terriors, whom he adored through the years.

Robert is survived by his wife, Pat Keel of Oxford, MS; a son, Dwight Minor of Tyler TX (Emily); grandchildren, Courtney, Patrick, Cade, Elijah, and Liberty; great grandchildren, Harlow, Zaylee, Eisley, Addilyn, Rebekah, Jayla; and a great-great grandchild, Brayleigh.

Memorial contributions in Mr. Keel’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or by visiting www.stjude.org.