James Robert Keenan

James Robert “JR” Keenan passed away on Monday, June 17, 2024, at his home in Blanchard, OK.

JR was born April 2, 1944 in Gaffney SC to James T. and Carrie L Keenan.

JR enlisted in the United States Navy in July 1962 serving aboard the USS Yorktown during the Vietnam War until his discharge in July 1968. In February 1984, he joined the Oklahoma Army National Guard and continued to serve his state and nation until February 1998 when he retired with 20 years’ military service. During his National Guard Service, he was deployed in support of Operation Desert Storm/Desert Shield.

In January 1971, JR married Judy Ann Mobley in Oklahoma City, OK and had 3 sons. JR enjoyed working with his hands by welding, working on cars and small engines and tinkering around on just about anything he could lay his hands on. His hobbies included hunting, fishing and camping with his family. JR was never afraid to provide his ‘professional expertise’ in any project or task that his family was working on. He will always remembered by the phrase WWPD, What Would Papaw Do.

JR was preceded in death by his parents, James and Carrie Keenan of Greer, SC, his sister Patricia Cantrell of Greer, SC, and his brother Wayne Keenan of Columbia, SC. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Judy and his sons, Dale Keenan and his wife Jamie of Oklahoma City; Neil Keenan and his wife, Lissa of Blanchard, OK; JD Keenan and his wife, Wendy of Nicoma Park, OK; his sisters, Joyce Enoch, Leesville, SC; Alice Lych, Greer, SC and his brother Alan Dale Keenan of Burleson TX.

JR also leaves behind numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends.

A memorial service celebrating his life will be held for JR at a later date.