Allen Ray Keathley, 85, passed away March 14, 2020, at home surrounded by family. He was born October 27, 1934, to Clarence Ray Keathley and Anna Lee (Sutterfield) Keathley in Ironton, Missouri.
He was an active member of First Baptist Church of Terre Haute, where he participated in music ministry, children's ministry, and was a Kid's Hope mentor.
He held a bachelor's degree in cello performance from the University of Missouri, a master's degree in Divinity from Midwest Baptist Theological Seminary, a master's degree in Church Music from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a master's degree in Library and Information Sciences from the University of Missouri.
He spent his career at Indiana State University where he was a reference librarian, music librarian, and taught music classes. He was a member of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, and a 41-year member of the Terre Haute Symphony Orchestra. Most recently, he continued to play in the ISU Concert Band, the Terre Haute Sinfonietta, and the Terre Haute Concert Band.
He is preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Mabel (Knight) Keathley, his parents, sister Dorothy Keathley, and son-in-law Bruce Wight.
Survivors include sister Carolyn McBurney; daughters Deborah Wight, Ellen (Zack) McCullough, son Michael (Misty) Keathley; grandchildren Sharon Wight (Dan Hicks), Wesley (Katrina) McCullough, Laura Wight, Kaitlyn McCullough, Mickenzie Keathley, Clarissa McCullough, Ellissa McCullough, Hannahlore McCullough, Megan Keathley, Aengus McCullough, Gwenhwyfar McCullough, Maire McCullough, Madelyn Keathley, Arthur McCullough, Declan McCullough, Fineas McCullough; three great-grandsons; many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
Services will include a private family graveside service; A public memorial celebration will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to First Baptist Church of Terre Haute, 4701 Poplar St, Terre Haute, IN 47803, or to the Terre Haute Symphony Orchestra, 25 N 6th St, Terre Haute, IN 47807.
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