Obituary of William Keays

William C. Keays GlenvilleWilliam C. Keays of Glenville died Thursday, June 20, 2013, at Ellis Hospital, surrounded by his loving wife of 25 years Linda (Masuk) Keays; sons, Bud and Billy, their wives, devoted family and friends. Many years of battling both heart complications and arthritis had finally taken their toll. Bill is survived by his brother Walter Keays and his wife Pauline from Front Royal, VA. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews and many special friends. He was predeceased by his brothers, Preston Keays of Greenwich, NY and Donald Keays of Houston, TX; sisters, Katie Schull, Shirley and Gloria Gonzalez all from Decatur, IL; and sister, Dorothy Weber of Tulsa, OK. Bill will be affectionately remembered for his humor, good nature, and optimistic point of view. He wore many hats during his time on this earth, touching so many along the way. Bill so proudly served his country as a Marine for four years. He also owned and operated Bill's Diner, where both good food and good conversation were consistently on the menu. Handyman Bill was readily available to lend a helping hand to family, friends, neighbors and even strangers, always willing to assist others with his insight, ability and skill on so many projects. He was affectionately coined The Mayor at the local Stewarts. He would arrive every morning at 5 a.m., eager to greet his constituents. Always sitting in the last booth, in the last seat, allowed for optimal placement and position to converse and begin the day. Bill was a glass half full kind of guy, forever a realist but always an optimist. His magnetic personality allowed him to work a room with his witty jokes and captivating manner. He enjoyed deep conversations regarding politics, golf, and of course his beloved Yankees. Most often times prodding others to dig deeper into the issue by asking their opinion, and seeking justification as well. His sense of spirit and style forever evident at each hospitalization, sporting his trademark New Balance high top white sneakers to compliment his hospital gown, he was loved by the staff and physicians alike. Quiet stories to be remembered and shared, pieces of Bill and his life perspective for each of us to carry forward, celebrating his impact on our lives. He was a touchstone to many friends, perhaps not always realizing the subtle difference a kind word or deed had on others. Bill would personally call his elderly regulars who frequented his diner, fully aware that their funds would run low at the end of the month; quietly wanting to ensure that they were fed and discreetly looking out for their welfare. Friendships developed over the years, such as his friend, Barbie, from Stewarts, who was so grateful for his comfort and guidance during difficult times. Popsicles were always readily available in the freezer for the neighborhood children, simply to put a smile on their face on a hot summer's day. Though he loved them all, Gabriel and Evie held a special place in his heart. These captured moments are shared to help paint a picture of a man who lived his life without bells, whistles or fanfare; a life of simple laughter, genuine caring and gratitude for those he was able to share it with. They say our lives are measured by the dash, that little line located between our birth and our death. That line represents our time spent here on earth, and now only those that loved him know what that little line is worth. Visitation will be held at Glenville Funeral Home, June 24, 2013 from 4 to 7 p.m. Funeral services begin Tuesday, June 25, 2013 at 8:30 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 9 a.m. from The Church of Immaculate Conception, 400 Saratoga Rd. (Rte 50) in Glenville. Burial will be at St. Anthony's Cemetery in Glenville. Memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association at Heart.org. www.glenvillefuneralhome.com