William (Bill) Franklin Keylon,83, of Athens, passed away Wednesday, December 27, 2022 at Dominion Assisted Living.
Bill was a lifelong resident of McMinn County and was a son of the late Roy and Beatrice Haire Keylon. He was also preceded in death by sisters, Karen Keylon and Betty Burke, and brothers, J.R. and his wife Marilyn Keylon and Tommy Keylon .
He was a member of North Etowah Baptist Church.
He was associated with the U.S. Military in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and retired after 42 years.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Tolitha Wall Keylon ; sons, Kris and his wfe, Kevin, and Lane Keylon; grandaughter, Ansley Keylon; grandson, Cade Keylon; brothers and sisters-in-law, David and Joyce Keylon, Robert (Bob) and Alberta Keylon ; sister-in-law, Diane Keylon; brother-in-law, Van Wall; and several nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will be conducted 7:00 pm, Monday, January 2, 2023 in the chapel of Smith Funeral Home with Rev. Pete Mullins and Rev. Randy Ellis officiating. The committal service will be 11:00am, Friday, January 6, 2023 at Chattanooga National Cemetery with full military honors at the graveside provided by the U.S. Army. The family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 pm, Monday at the funeral home prior to the service.
Honorary Pallbearers will be Larry Duggan, Nick Wade, Harold Benson, Doug Swain, Don Slack, Harold Stephen, Don Wattenbarger, Billy Mayberry, and Ron Miller.
The family suggests memorials be made to a charity of the giver's choice.
You may sign the guest register at www.smithfuneralandcremationservicesofathens.com.
Smith Funeral & Cremation Services of Athens is honored to serve the family of William (Bi