Aileen Keltner Keithley was born on May 8th, 1932 in Chestnutridge, Missouri to Glen & Della Keltner and went to be with her Lord and Savior in Ridgedale, Missouri on February 7th, 2022 at the age of 89.

Aileen was a graduate of Spokane High School in 1950, where she was a Cheerleader, a member of Glee Club, Volleyball Team and Softball Team. Following graduation, she married the love of her life and soulmate, Chuck Keithley on July 19th, 1950. They were married 63 years at the time of Chuck’s death on May 4th, 2013 at the age of 86.

Aileen is survived by her two daughters: Kathy & her husband Steve Johnston of Buckeye, Arizona. Jana and her husband Kevin Kueck of Ridgedale, Missouri. Aileen was blessed with three Grandchildren: Chase Keithley Johnston and wife Val of Buckeye, Arizona, Zachary Kueck and wife Cassidy of Hollister, Missouri and Haley and Miles Battaglia of Branson, Missouri. Aileen was a beloved Grandmother and Great Grandmother and cherished her great grandchildren Zane & Piper Kueck. Aileen had one sister, Glenette Keltner Brown, married to Adrian Brown of Chestnutridge, Missouri. Aileen was blessed with many loving Cousins, Nieces, Nephews and friends.

Aileen was a loving wife, mother and business woman. Not only did she work for Davidson Jewelry Store in the 1950’s but also worked for many years for Dr. Walt Hammer’s and Dr. Charles Spears as a Medical Tech. Beginning in 1960’s, Chuck & Aileen purchased and operated the Sports Center in downtown Branson and were owners until Chuck became Sheriff of Taney County in 1972-1992. Aileen continued to work for Dr. Charles Spears until she retired 21 years later.

Aileen and Chuck loved the Ozarks and the people in their community. Not only did they claim Chestnutridge as their home but also lived In Sacramento, California for a short time, until Aileen persuaded Chuck to return to Missouri. At that time, they purchased a home in Rockaway Beach and finally moved to Branson in 1957 where they were lifelong residents of Taney County.

Aileen never met a stranger and was born to be a Church greeter. Aileen accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Lord and Savior in her 50’s and was baptized when she became a member of Victory Baptist Church in Branson. She was a founding member of Ozark Mountain Community Church of Blue Eye, beginning in 1997 where her son-In-law, Kevin Kueck was Pastor. Aileen and Chuck dearly loved people and enjoyed building relationships that have been treasured for a lifetime.

A life celebration service will be held at GreenLawn Funeral Home in Branson on Saturday, February 12th at 11:00 am. with Rev. Kevin Kueck officiating.

Donations can be made to: The Missouri State Sheriff’s Association for Fallen Officers.