Thomas Walker Keels

Thomas Walker Keels RAVENEL, SC - Thomas Walker Keels, 82, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2024, surrounded by family. He was preceded in death by his father, Walker Clyde Keels and mother Catherine Cunningham Keels as well as his first wife, Diane Griffin Keels. Tom leaves behind his loving wife, Hazel Keels; and his dedicated daughter, Elaine Shelton (Todd); as well as a son, Thomas Walker Keels, Jr. Other family members include his brother, Mike Keels (Susan); grandchildren, Grace and Griffin Shelton; and nephews, Brian Keels (Kailey) and Jordan Keels (Rosalyn). Tom also leaves behind special cousins, Bill and Kathryn Stover, Dan Stover and Teresa Stover. Tom was a 1960 graduate of North Charleston High and attended Clemson. He was an exceptional Charleston Naval Shipyard employee for more than 28 years and was known for his dedication, mentorship, team building qualities and integrity. Tom was a member of the team that worked tirelessly and futilely to convince DOD not to close the shipyard. After his retirement, Tom's love of the lake prompted him to relocate to Eutaw Springs. He was an avid fisherman and loved being on the water. He enjoyed bird watching while drinking his morning coffee and he cherished the time spent with his special friends at neighborhood fish-fries and cookouts. The family would like to thank the 5th floor staff at Roper Hospital for their exceptional care and concern. Special thanks to Harold Dukes and the entire Dukes family for their support. Also, the family would like to thank Pastors Jeremy Simmons and Tommy Wolpert. The family will receive friends on Saturday, August 17, 2024, from 12-1pm at Sauldam Baptist Church, 5945 County Line Road, Ravenel, SC 29470. The service will follow at 1pm.

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