Willard Bruce Keen

Willard “Bruce” Keen, age 70, of Christiansburg, Virginia went to be with the Lord in his home surrounded by loved ones on Thursday, March 5, 2020. He was born on April 10, 1949 at his family home on Slate Creek Road in Grundy, Virginia. After graduating from Grundy High School in 1968, he graduated from Nashville Auto-Diesel College. He was preceded in death by his Father and Mother, John and Vertie Mullins Keen and late wife of 37 years Janet Stacy Keene. Left to cherish his memory are Wife, Susan Rutledge Keen of 8 years, daughters Amanda Gravely grandchildren Zachariah, Grace, Elijah and Faith, daughter Ashley Keene Graham and son Chris Graham grandchildren Lucy Rose and Laney Pearl, Andy Rutledge (Sabrina) grandchild Colton, and Rachel Rutledge (Brittan Young), His loving pups Bailey “Belly”, Millie, and Tanner. Brothers Lennis Keene, Dennis Keene, Eulis Keene (Kathleen) and Uvon Keene, Sisters Elsie Keen Ward, Gertrude Keen Mullins, Pearl Keene Mullins, Betty Joe Keene Prater (Eddie) and Delores Keene Mullins, Sister-in Law Saundra Linkous (Greg). In addition to being a dedicated and loving father, husband, “G-Dad,” brother, cousin, and friend, Bruce also loved Carter Machinery where he worked for 42 years. While working he had the opportunity to live in Newport News/Chesapeake, KY, WV, VA coal fields, and the last 11 years out of the Abingdon store. He enjoyed spending most of his time working outdoors, gardening, spending time and traveling with his family, telling stories, and loving the Lord. He attended Harbor of Hope IPH where he worshipped with his beloved pastors, Craig and Sonja Reed. Bruce will be deeply missed by all of his family and friends on the mountain, and all who knew his humble and kind presence. “For He will give His angels charge concerning you, to guard you in all your ways.” Psalm 91:11 “See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared.” Exodus 23:20 Special thanks to all of the medical professionals and hospice who provided care and support. A celebration of life will be held at 1:00pm on Sunday, March 8 at Virginia Funeral Home 3222 Slate Creek Road Grundy, Virginia 24614, with Evangelist Hobert Kennedy officiating. Friends may call after 12:00 Noon. In honor of Bruce, a donation to Harbor of Hope church 2720 Roanoke St. Christiansburg, VA 24073 or your local animal rescue would be appreciated. Virginia Funeral Home of Grundy is in charge of arrangements.