Richard Morris Keller

ALBANY, GA – Richard Morris Keller, 87, passed away on October 8, 2026, at Phoebe Putney Medical Center.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM Sunday, October 11, 2026, at Cobb Funeral Chapel with the Reverend Charles “Bud” Blanton officiating.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 PM- 2:45 PM Sunday, October 11, 2026, at Cobb Funeral Chapel.

Born on January 23, 1939, he was the son of Annette and Joseph Keller. Richard lived a life defined by service, discipline, hard work and dedication to his family and community. He proudly served four years in the United States Air Force. Following his military service, he continued serving his country through a career in civil service, where he and Mr. Bob Bryant established an all-volunteer fire department, leaving behind a lasting legacy of dedication and service to others. As a father, Richard was stern but fair. He believed in discipline, responsibility and the importance of hard work. He held high expectations and believed in teaching his children the values they would need throughout their lives. His approach to fatherhood reflected the principles he lived by every day. Richard adopted twins, Bridgette and Joseph, and raised them as his own children. He took responsibilities as a father seriously and instilled in his children the importance of discipline, perseverance, doing what needs to be done. The lessons he taught and the example he set will continue to live on through this family. Retirement did not mean slowing down for Richard, he remained hardworking and active, always finding something to do around the house. Even after surviving a nearly fatal accident some years ago, he persevered and continued keeping busy. His determination, resilience, and strong work ethic remained defining characteristics throughout his life. Richard dedicated his life to serving his country, contributing to his community and raising his family. His years of military service, career in civil service, commitment to helping others, and dedication as a father stands as testament to the life he lived.

Richard leaves behind his beloved children, Bridgette Keller and great-granddaughter Sophia, both of Albany; son, Joseph and his wife Sherry of Valdosta; sister, Joanne Minute of Texas and her children, Robin Ramirez, Kelly Young Bright and Julia Martin; grandchildren, Joshua and Tamrun; great-grandchildren, Haylee, Ruby, and Damien and the late Aden; several other family and friends. His family remains an important part of the legacy he leaves behind, carrying forward the values he worked to instill throughout his life. Richard’s lessons, guidance, and examples will live on through his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Through he will be deeply missed, the values he taught the work he accomplished, and the life he lived will not be forgotten. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him and loved him.