Jeff Keas

Jeff was born in Jackson, Tenn. on Jan. 4, 1954 to Howard Thomas Keas and Mary Ruth Olhausen Keas. He attended Jackson Central-Merry High School and was a dedicated athlete, participating in basketball and track and field.

After high school, Jeff attended Union University and graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in 1976.

Following his collegiate studies, Jeff was called to attend Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas, where he received his Masters of Religious Education in 1978. Jeff focused on youth studies as an intern at First Baptist Dallas before beginning his ministry career at Britt David Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia.

In Columbus, Jeff accomplished much: from becoming the first man from his hometown to complete the Boston Marathon to building a recreation center at his home church. He was a staple in the Columbus community.

Jeff then moved back home to Jackson, Tenn., where he started a family and served as Youth Minister at First Baptist Church for over ten years. Jeff spent the majority of his career combining his love of Christ and physical wellness, inspiring many along the way.

After retiring from the church, Jeff became a realtor for Town and Country Realty, where he worked for the remainder of his life.

Jeff will be remembered for his student ministries, dynamic sense of humor, loyalty to friends and family, athletic achievements and devotion to God.

Jeff is survived by his brother, Joel (Rhonda), his sister Tamara Keas, his daughter Erin Keas, his son Caleb (Faith) his granddaughter, Margaret Erin Keas and his nieces and nephews Jonathan, Emily and Elliot.

A service to celebrate the life of Jeff Keas will be held Friday, November 21, 2025 at 1:00 pm at the North Chapel of George A. Smith and Sons with burial following in Highland Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends beginning at 11:00 am, two hours prior to the service.