James “Buck” Willard Keef, Jr.
James “Buck” Willard Keef Jr., 92, passed away at his home, surrounded by his family, on September 4, 2024.
Born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, he was a cherished member of the community and a devoted family man.
James graduated in 1951 from Chattanooga city High School he was a proud veteran, serving as a Private First Class in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955 amidst the Korean War. During the conflict, he was stationed in Austria as a lineman, providing vital communications support.
Professionally, James dedicated his life to the printing industry. James was a third-generation printer, following in both his grandfather and father’s footsteps. He began his career at his father’s business, Acme Printing Company, before moving onto positions starting with the Hamilton County Herald, Arcade Printing, National Posters, Royal Zenith, and Williams Company. Alongside his printing career, James owned Cherokee Motors and co-owned Riverbend Imports. He retired from Royal Zenith Corporation in his 70s, where he made significant contributions as a national and international printing press technician, including challenging assignments behind the Iron Curtain in East Germany during the 1980s. James inherited from his parents the Northside Motel, and Acme Printing Company on Cherokee Blvd. This land has been held by his family for over 100 years, with James being the fourth generation owner of this property.
James’ passions included owning and piloting private planes, collecting and restoring antique automobiles, as well as being an investor in the rental property business. He was also an avid motorcyclist and boater. Known for his excellent memory, he was a captivating storyteller, often regaling friends and family with tales of the “good ole days.”
He is survived by his children, James (Paige Bohne) Willard Keef III, John David Keef, and Karen (Mark) Marie Keef Spivey, his ex-wife and the mother of his children, Saundra Marie Woodall Keef, his sister, Ruth Charlene Owens Golston, his grandchildren, Joshua Allen Maynor, Jessica (Joseph) Marie Hamala, Christian (Derek Thatcher) Marie Keef, James David Keef, Kathryn Chancey Bohne Rutledge, and his great-grandchildren, Kaleigh Marie Shepherd, Zoie Bella Maynor, Brooke Evelyn Shepherd, Ryan Joseph Shepherd, Millie Evelynn Maynor, Alexander James Keef, and Ivy Eloise Hamala.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Francis Adeline Owens Keef and James Willard Keef Sr., his daughter-in-law Robin Huron Keef, his grandparents, James Daniel Keef, Annie Moe Adams Keef, John Shaw Owens, and Jessie Martin Sherrill Owens.
A man of many talents and immense warmth, James left a lasting impact on everyone he met. His legacy will live on through his family, his stories, and the indelible mark he left on the printing industry.
The family would like to offer our sincere thanks and gratitude to Drs. Ivey Williamson, William D. Craig, and Davey Daniel. Hospice of Chattanooga provided amazing support and comfort. We are also grateful for all of his caregivers.
A graveside service only will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 10, at the Chattanooga Memorial Park, with Pastor Marcus Clagg officiating. Pallbearers are James W. Keef III, John David Keef, Joshua Maynor, James D. Keef, Mark Spivey and Joseph Hamala.
Arrangements are entrusted to Lane Funeral Home - Coulter Chapel, 601 Ashland Terrace.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the charity of your choice.
A Printers Prayer
A printer stood at the Pearly Gates,
His Face was worn and old
He meekly asked the man of fate
Admission to the fold.
“What have you done?” St. Peter asked,
“To seek admission here”.
“I was a printer sir.” he said
“For many, many a year.”
The Gates swung open sharply.
“Come in,” he said, “You've had enough of Hell.”