Robert “Bob” Keefer, age 71, of Spruce Pine, passed away on Sunday, April 19th, 2026 at his home surrounded by his loving family.
At the young age of 18 months, Bob was the sole survivor of a motor vehicle accident and was raised by his loving grandparents, Tench Lemuel and Fleta Lorayne McClure. After high school, Bob entered into the United States Air Force, where he honorably served his country. Following his service with the military, Bob attended and graduated trade school. Bob and his wife were proud lifetime members of the Sgt. E. L. Randolph Chapter #57 D.A.V., reflecting their shared commitment to supporting fellow veterans.
He was a devoted family man, whose sons were his greatest pride and joy. Bob faithfully served as the church organist at Central Baptist Church and shared his musical talents with several ministry bands over the years, including those connected with biker churches. His passion for outreach led him to be actively involved in multiple biker ministries, where he formed lasting friendships and touched many lives. In addition to his ministry work, Bob dedicated himself to public service as a firefighter, ultimately serving as Chief of the Spencer Mountain Road Volunteer Fire Department in Dallas, NC. Outside of his service to others, he found peace and joy in the outdoors, especially while hiking and kayaking.
Surviving are his loving wife of 46 years, Nancy J. Keefer; sons: Robert Keefer (Brandi) of St. Stephen, SC, Terrell Keefer of Spruce Pine, Ray Keefer (Mandy) of Burnsville and Tyler Gales (Anna) of Vale; grandchildren: Dalton (Selina) Boone, Glenn “Sully” Wenningham, Morgan Keefer, Elijah Keefer and Grayson Gales. Several other extended family members also survive.
A service to celebrate Bob’s life will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 2nd at Central Baptist Church. Pastor, Chaplain, and friend Jody Griffin will officiate. The family will receive friends following the service at the church.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to their church family and to the hospice team for the compassionate care, support, and kindness shown during this time. Memorial donations may be made to either wonderful organization at Central Baptist Church, P.O. Box 727, Spruce Pine, NC 28777 or Compassionate Care WNC, 856 Georges Fork Road, Burnsville, NC 28714. You may send the family an online condolence at www.yanceyfuneralservice.com. Yancey Funeral Services is serving the Keefer family.