James C. Keeney, 82, of Hanover, PA, entered God’s eternal care on Sunday, April 9, 2017 at the Brethren Home at Cross Keys Village.

Born June 17, 1934 in Hanover, PA, he was the son of the late Norman W. and Ranabelle (Meckley) Keeney.  James was the loving husband of Patricia (Beck) Keeney with whom he shared 62 years of marriage.

James was a 1952 graduate of Eichelberger High School, where he was a member of the Baseball Team and the 1952 South Penn Conference Championship Basketball Team.

Mr. Keeney was a veteran of the Pennsylvania National Guard and the United States Army, having served his country proudly from 1956 to 1960.  He was a Route Salesman for Utz Quality Foods for 36 years.

James was an active member of St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Hanover, PA.  He was a drummer for the Hanover Lancers and multiple dance bands, such as The Clefman and The Gary Sterner Orchestra.  While his kids were growing up, he was very involved with the Instrumental Music Parents Club at Hanover High School, as well as a leader of the local Y-Indian Guides Program.  He was also a member of Minnewaukaru Hunting Camp.

Mr. Keeney loved sports, especially the New York Yankees.  He was the scorekeeper for many years for the Hanover High School Basketball Team, Football Team, and Field Hockey Team, and was a local softball umpire for the Hanover Industrial League and Hanover Church League.

In addition to his wife Patricia, James is survived by his children, Andrea Little of Hanover, PA, Melissa Smeltzer of York, PA, and Mitchell Keeney and wife Jill of Hanover, PA; four grandchildren, Taylor Smeltzer, Paige Smeltzer, Mackenzie Keeney, and Brooks Keeney (a third generation #12 Nighthawk basketball player); and numerous nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by three siblings, Marian Miller, Norman Keeney Jr., and Barbara Markle.

The family would like to extend a sincere thank you to the Sun Valley staff at the Brethren Home, as well as the VNA of Hanover / Spring Grove for the wonderful care and compassion given to James.

Funeral services will be private and at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of James to St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 30 West Chestnut Street, Hanover, PA 17331 or the Hanover Athletic Booster Club, 403 Moul Avenue, Hanover, PA 17331.

The Kenworthy Funeral Home, Inc., 269 Frederick Street, Hanover, PA, is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements.  Memories and condolences may be shared at www.kenworthyfh.com.

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