Marguerite Hendley Keeter

Marguerite Hendley Keeter, peacefully passed away at her residence in Tifton surrounded by her family, on January 28, 2024. She was born on August 5, 1936, in Brooklet, Georgia but raised in Savannah. Marguerite's passion and dedication to her family and career left an indelible mark on all those whose lives she touched.

Marguerite's life was defined by her exceptional career in the furniture business. Alongside her husband Grady, she co-founded their furniture business in Tifton in 1964, which later became known as Keeter's Home Furnishings. Their business thrived under their capable guidance until Grady's retirement in 1988 when he decided to spend more precious time with their family. Marguerite remained actively involved in and decorating business until 2019, continuing to lend her impeccable taste and expertise as a decorator.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Marguerite had a zest for life that was unmatched. She was known for her love of entertaining and traveling the world. Her warm hospitality extended to all who visited her home; she had an uncanny ability to create a welcoming atmosphere that made everyone feel like family. Marguerite delighted in cooking for others and would always use her fine china to add a touch of elegance to any party.

Her dedication to faith was unwavering as she was an active member of First Baptist Church of Tifton since 1965. Her faith not only provided solace and strength but also shaped her compassionate nature. Marguerite believed in the power of love and kindness, extending them unconditionally to all those around her.

Marguerite leaves behind a legacy of love and lasting memories cherished by all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her loving husband Grady Milton Keeter on July 30, 2009. The couple celebrated fifty-three beautiful years of marriage before his passing. Marguerite is also preceded in death by her daughter, Kim Nance as well as her three sisters, Peggy Clements, Juanita Smith and Clarice Hendley. 

She survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Korey and Bobbie Meads Keeter and her son-in-law, Bobby Nance. She was a proud grandmother to Savannah Leann Nance, William Lawson Swan and his wife Sarah, Lauren Elizabeth Fletcher and her husband Brett, Jessica Lyn LaGuardia and her husband Quinn. Marguerite's joy extended to her great-grandchildren: Jaxon Nance, Tucker Swan, James Fletcher, with two more on the way - Corie Elizabeth Fletcher and Hendley Meads LaGuardia. Her love for them knew no bounds and was known by many as “Maw Maw”.

Marguerite's gentle spirit and caring nature profoundly influenced those around her. She exemplified grace and kindness in all aspects of life. Her loss will be deeply felt by her family, numerous friends, and members of the community who were privileged to have known her.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 30, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., at Albritton Funeral Directors. A funeral service will take place on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., at the First Baptist Church of Tifton Memorial Chapel with Rev. John Hughes officiating. Interment will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery.

Ryan Buckley, Rob Buckley, Jaxon Nance, Lawson Swan, Benjamin Wilson, Tucker Swan and Jacob DelToro will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Myra Buckley, Carolyn Grant, Johnne Graves, Grace Gladin, B. J. Brodgen, Joyce Johnson,  Ruth Sturdivant, LaVonda Womack, Myra Hortman, Edie Potts, Sarinelle Potts and the Merle Bowen Sunday School Class.