Nellie Sue Keen's Obituary
Nellie Sue “Nell” Keen passed away peacefully in Pearland, Texas, on Sunday, March 29th, 2026, at the age of 98. She is preceded in death by her husband, Robert Curtis Keen, and her parents, Turner Lewis Sr and Virginia (Taylor) Lewis. Nell is survived by her son, Gene Keen (Cathy); daughters, Ginia Gayle Mattern (Mauris), Kelley Boldig (Bob), Libby Kyle (Bill); sisters, Ginia Wray Wright and Johnye Kay Tarabocchia; grandchildren, Christian (Samantha), Brian (Amber), Melissa (Carlos), Aaron, Chris (Suzanne), Zach (Erin), Collin, Chandler (Sara), Curtis, Hunter, Katey (Gabe); great grandchildren, Syllah, Calleigh, Fabian, Cruz, Carter, Frances, Greta, Cora; an abundance of wonderful nieces and nephews; and a host of many other family and friends.
Nell was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend whose life was guided by faith and love for family. She married Robert Curtis Keen on January 3, 1947, and they shared 45 happy years together. Nell and Curtis were founding members of Clay Road Baptist Church, where she faithfully volunteered. She also worked for more than 20 years as a bookkeeper and was known for her dedication and care in all she did.
Family was always Nell’s greatest joy. She had a rare gift for making everyone feel special, and she delighted in spending time with her grandchildren through trips, reunions, and everyday moments. A wonderful cook and baker, family gatherings were filled with Nell’s famous fried shrimp, fresh desserts, and coffee, with plenty of coffee mate. Large family and holiday gatherings became known as Keen Klusters, as she had a way of keeping things interesting.
Nell treasured friendships formed through church, travel, neighborhood bridge games, and cherished the annual “Circus” trips to Inks Lake that created memories lasting decades. She loved to travel, whether it was visiting family, taking the grandkids somewhere, or going places with her "Church Ladies." Seems like she always had her bag packed. She also loved to play the slot machines, so she was often headed to Louisiana with her sisters or friends.
In later years, Alzheimer’s disease slowly took from her the laughter and warmth so many loved, but it could never erase the legacy of kindness she left behind. Nell will be deeply missed, yet her love and the memories she created will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Nell’s family would like to extend a special thanks to her many caregivers over the years, but especially Lori Vera, Eva Volrie and LTanya Miller.
Funeral services for Nell will be held on Wednesday, April 8th, 2026, at First United Methodist Church Pearland, commencing at 11:00 am. Interment will take place the following day, Thursday, April 9th, at Parker Cemetery, in Grapeland, Texas, at 12:00 pm.
To honor Nell, and put a smile on her face, please wear something blue to the funeral service, it was her favorite color.
Please consider making a memorial donation to the charity of your choice in Nell's honor.
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