Joan E. Keefer

Joan Elizabeth Keefer

It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Joan Elizabeth Keefer, 85, on Thursday, March 12, 2026. Joan joined our Lord peacefully from her home surrounded by loved ones. 

Joan was born in Baltimore, Maryland on January 23, 1941, to George and Agnes Walters. 

Joan is predeceased by her loving husband of 59 years, John (Jack) Ray Keefer. Joan is survived by her 3 children, Sherry (Bill) Humphreys, Pasadena, Maryland, John Keefer, Jr., Pasadena, Maryland, Karen (Allen) Seward, Grasonville, Maryland. She adored her grandchildren, Brandon Humphreys, Kara (Trevor) O'Connor, Justin and Jacqueline Seward. 

Joan graduated from Southern High School in Baltimore. While attending Southern, Joan met the love of her life when passing Jack on a sidewalk. Jack said to his mother, "Mom, I'm gonna marry her someday." Joan and Jack were married April 30, 1960. After living in Baltimore a bit, Jack and Joan built a beautiful home near the water in Pasadena, Maryland. They remained there for life raising their children and enjoying their retirement. Joan was a devoted homemaker whose life was centered around her family, caring for them and serving for others, living out her strong Christian faith. 

Joan is predeceased by her 3 beloved sisters, Betty McCormick, (Catonsville), Jean Pritt, (Severna Park), Georgia Crowley, (Crownsville) and her beloved sister-in-law, Becky Dayton, (Baltimore). Joan enjoyed a lifetime with her sisters. 

Working in Jeans antique store, travelling to Jamaica (a lifetime favorite), Ocean City (Montego Bay), many memories, to name just a few. Joan and Jack travelled with their children, many family trips included camping - Maine, Florida and everything in between. She was an avid walker and enjoyed watching decades of kids swimming in their pool. Joan found joy in the simple, meaningful things. The family church, and it's amazing Pantry Kitchen, were grateful for Joan for over 10 years of her faithful service & volunteer work. Joan cherished and loved her longtime friends there. Joan was a companion to many elderly individuals offering them friendship and care. Her greatest joy was her family. Joan LOVED baking and cooking for everyone.

In addition to magical Christmas celebrations, she brought her many talents to her Mom and Dads spectacular July 4th Crab Feast, every year. She was especially known for her Easter Celebration and deep-rooted traditions of being beautifully dressed for Church, Easter egg hunts and her famous Peanut Butter Easter Eggs! She lovingly babysat all of her grandchildren, creating 1000's of memories, attending countless sporting events, Jacqueline's dance recitals, Justin's Scout events, she was there. Joan created many happy memories with her nieces and nephews, whom she was devoted to and loved very much. Joan had a gentle spirit and a heart full of gratitude. Her heart was full of gratitude, always, to her many caretakers. Joan's son, John Keefer Jr., was by her side, in her home, never wavering, for the last 2 years. 

Joan will always be remembered for her kindness, sweetness and love that she showed to everyone around her. Her love and presence will be deeply missed by her family and friends and all who were fortunate enough to know her. She made everyone laugh and smile. She will be forever loved and never forgotten. We were so very blessed to have her. 

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." Mathew 25:21

Relatives and friends are invited to visit at the Community United Methodist Church 8680 Fort Smallwood Road PASADENA on Friday, April 3, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 Noon. Funeral services will begin at 12:00 Noon. Interment Crownsville Veterans Cemetery.