Lillian Frances Ezell Keyes, 96, passed away on Saturday, Sept. 12, 2020 in Gainesville, Fla.. Frances was born March 15, 1924, to Berry and Candace Ezell in Starke, Fla. She was a 1942 graduate of Lee High School, in Lee Fla. and married R.B. Keyes shortly after graduation. After living for a short time in California where R.B. was stationed during WWII, they returned to make their home in Gainesville in 1946. Her grandchildren called her "Grandmommie" and she was known as "Grannie Keyes" to the many children she taught in school and church.
She served alongside her husband who was pastor of Eastside Baptist Church for more than 50 years. She taught many children in their first years of school at Eastside's Bethany Christian School, and at Countryside and Westwood Hills Christian schools. She will be remembered for her beautiful flower arrangements and her delicious mac and cheese.
She is survived by her daughters: Teresa Montoya of Bellaire Bluffs, Fla., and Susan (Phillip) Sherrod, of Felda Fla.; her sons: Timothy (Kitty) Keyes of Gainesville Fla., and Jonathon (Tina) Keyes of Jacksonville Fla. Her husband, R. B. Keyes preceded her in death in 2004. She has 12 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.
A graveside service was held at the Lee Memorial Cemetery on Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2020 at 11 a.m. All arrangements were under the care of Burns Funeral Home of Madison. Friends may sign the online guest book at www.joepburnsfuneralhomes.com.