Roger Gale Keen, 76, of Keenes, IL passed away on Friday, June 5, 2026, at his home. He had been in declining health. Roger was born in DeKalb, IL on October 4, 1949, to Clyde “Monk” and Dorothy (Shaw) Keen. On June 21, 1969, he married Carolyn (Johnson) Keen, who survives. They celebrated 56 years of marriage together.
Roger began working outside the home at just 12 years old and worked over 45 years in the oil field in a variety of capacities.
Roger was an active member of Ten Post Oak Missionary Baptist Church, showing his faith every single day through his kindness, his easy smile, and his willingness to help absolutely anyone in need.
When he wasn’t working or spending time at church, he loved the simple things in life. You could often find him playing card games with family and friends. More than anything, he loved his family fiercely and was happiest when the house was full of noise and laughter, and he loved to share a funny story with friends at the gas station.
He is survived by his wife Carolyn Keen of Keenes; 3 sons: Jeffery Keen of Keenes, Dr. Richard (Dr. Stefanie) Keen of Spartanburg, SC and Randy (Kelli) Keen of Keenes; and 3 grandchildren: Hannah Keen, Leah Keen, and Evan Keen. He is also survived by 4 sisters: Judy (John) Gabbord of Sims, IL; Vera (Bo) Rawls of Wayne City, IL; Patty (Wayne) Robertson of Wayne City, and Rita (Tom) Sager of Sims; sister-in-law Renda (Jesse) Keen of Minerva, OH; brother-in-law Edward Ayers of Wayne City, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Roger was preceded in death by 4 sisters: Wanda Kincart, Betty Warren, Leone Robertson and Debora Ayers; and 3 brothers: Jesse Keen, Mervin Keen, and stillborn brother Richard Keen.
Funeral services for Roger Gale Keen will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, June 12, 2026, at Young Funeral Home in Wayne City with Rev. Richard McCormick and Bro. Doug Haile officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12:00 p.m. on Friday at Young Funeral Home. Interment will follow the funeral service at Ten Post Oak Cemetery in Keenes.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Roger’s memory to the Ten Post Oak Cemetery Fund and will be accepted at Young Funeral Home in Wayne City.
Online condolences, memories, and words of encouragement may be shared at www.youngfuneralhomellc.com
