Jack Keene

Tupelo—Jack Laurence Keene went to be with the Lord on Monday, October 16, 2023 at the North Mississippi Medical Center. He was 78 years old. Jack was born in Metairie, Louisiana on March 3, 1945, the son of Sidney Anderson Keene and Elizabeth Daspit Myers Keene. Jack became involved in the Boy Scouts of America when his children were young and was active in leadership for many years. His impact and accomplishments in the organization were significant and meaningful to him. Jack was an avid knot-tyer and hosted a website on the topic in the early days of the internet that still exists today. After high school, Jack earned his degree in mechanical engineering. He was employed by a military contractor and specialized in night vision equipment in Dallas, Texas. At his retirement in 2012, he and his wife, Vicki, moved to Tupelo to be close to family. A man of many interests and abilities, Jack was a musician, photographer, and collector. His collection included coins and unique musical instruments. He had a brilliant mind and a kind heart.
Jack leaves behind his wife of 23 years, Vicki Keene; his children, Julie Ann Keene, Allison L. Keene, Jonathan Patrick Keene, Michelle Chandler, and Cindy McClellan; grandchildren, Jonathan Chatman, Sarah McBrayer, Robert Chatman, Brittany Sewell, and Brooklyn Henderson; three great-grandchildren, Sasha Chatman, Eli Chatman, and Obie McBrayer; and a sister, Arlett Keene.
The family will honor Jack’s fascinating life with a private celebration of life in the home. Pegues Funeral Directors has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Expressions of sympathy and fond memories may be shared at PeguesFuneralHome.com. In lieu of floral arrangements, Mrs. Keene has asked for donations in his name to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, PO Box 50, Memphis, TN 38101