John C. Kee

John C. Kee crossed over to eternity September 25, 2016 and leaves behind two children, Sandra Kee of Memphis and Mike Kee of Jonesboro; one brother, Jim Kee of Union Missouri; three grandchildren, Michael Shannon (Elaine) Kee, Cabern Kee, and Cory Kee; three great grandchildren, Hailey, Austin, and Hunter Kee all of Jonesboro; two nieces and thirteen nephews.

John was 90 years old, born in Jonesboro on April 23, 1926. He was a member of North Main Baptist Church. He married his high school sweetheart, Jean Evelyn Scruggs Kee on April 19, 1947. After her passing in July 2010, he was taken care of by the St. Bernard’s Total Life Center where he made many friends and enjoyed playing games and was hard to beat in a game of checkers. The family was instructed to inform Donna and the others at Total Life he was looking forward to getting back to break their tie! Had he not had the love and care of Total Life he would not have been with us for the next six years after Mother’s passing. Thanks to each of you for making this lasting time with our Father possible.

John was preceded in death by most of his family consisting of three sisters and three brothers; Christine Zatarack, Virginia Adair, Lucille, William (Junior), Oscar and Calvin Kee.

John and Jean built their home and business adjacent to each other on North Church Street, Kee Grocery and Service Station in 1956, which they operated for over ten years before John started his new company, Kee Construction Company which he operated for over fifty years till his retirement. Known for his quality of work and trustworthiness in his excavation business he taught to his only son, Mike Kee. Mike too became someone well known in the excavation business for his quality of work. John and Mike’s business then transferred to both of Mike’s sons, Shannon and Cabern Kee which is now going into it 65th year.

John enjoyed hunting and fishing and spent most of his past time looking for the right fishing/hunting spot.

Those who knew John and Jean knew how giving they were on their time and business for those in need and expected nothing to be given in return. They both expected the best in people in whatever they were doing with high integrity and honesty. They were an inspiration to all who met them believing that a lot of hard work and upright Christian living will lead you to a happier place here and forever. We know he has been welcomed home.

Please join us in celebrating John’s life by visiting with the family for visitation on Tuesday, September 27, 2016 from 5:00 until 7:00 at Emerson Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 10:00 Wednesday, September 28, 2016 at Emerson Memorial Chapel with Jim Kee officiating and Emerson Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. Burial will follow at Shiloh Cemetery with Jim Adair, David Kee, Doug Kee, Darryl Kee, Cory Kee, and Scott Kee serving as pallbearers.