Philip Aubrey Keever, Sr.

Philip Aubrey Keever, Sr., age 90, of Hiddenite, NC passed away peacefully at Gordons Hospice House on November 6, 2026.

Born May 29, 1936, in Hiddenite, NC to Lorene Warren Keever and Noel Mars Keever. He graduated from Hiddenite High School where he excelled in Baseball and Basketball and later on in semi pro leagues. He was a member of South River United methodist church. Philip was an avid Hunter and Fisherman. He coached little league baseball to a championship, served on the Hiddenite volunteer fire department, member of the Ruritan clubs of Mulberry-Fairplanes and Gwaltney’s, and was a member of the Lions club. He retired from a career as a District manager at Western Southern Life insurance company. He was a lifetime member of the Old Timers hunt club in Virginia.

After marrying his elementary school sweetheart and wife of 70 years, Helen Barnes, they made their home in Hiddenite and later enjoyed living on the shores of Kerr Scott Reservoir and Lake Norman before returning full circle to the family farm during retirement. He loved planting a garden full of tomatoes and corn every year.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Helen Barnes Keever, daughter-in-law Melony Faw and son-in-law James Baker, brother-in-law, William Jackson “Jackie” Smith.

He is survived by his 3 children, Rhonda Waters (Roger), Phil Keever (Tracy), and Joe Keever (Diane). A granddaughter, Whitley Carrigan (Mark) and a grandson, Aaron Keever. A great grandson Caleb Carrigan. Sister-in-law, Martha Smith.

The family would like to thank Philips special caregivers Amy Barr, Teresa Fox, Nicole Barnes, and Marilyn Williams.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 am Thursday, November 12, 2026, at Shady Grove Cemetery, 160 Shady Grove Rd, Hiddenite, NC 28636. Pastor Doug Hochmuth and Pastor Denise Kilgo will officiate. Pallbearers will be Andrew Smith, Garren Smith, Aaron Keever, Corky Bradley, Teddy Adams, Andrew Beck, Mark Carrigan, Brent Presley and Kevin Smith. A BBQ meal on the grounds at Shady Grove will follow the service for fellowship of friends. Please bring a lawn chair.

Memorials may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of Iredell County, 2347 Simonton Road, Statesville, NC 28625.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Alexander Funeral and Cremation Service.

Condolences may be sent to www.alexfuneralservice.com