Joseph L. Keitt

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course I have kept the faith”

~II Timothy 4:7~

Mr. Joseph L. “Joe” Keitt affectionally known as Sonny, 85,transitioned peacefully from his earthly home to his heavenly home on Sunday, April 2, 2023. He was born to the Late Booker T. Keitt and Rosa Keitt on December 5, 1938 in Orangeburg, South Carolina.

Joe gave his life to Christ at an early age at Andrew Chapel Baptist Church where he maintained an active membership until his health declined recently.

Joe attended the public schools in Orangeburg and graduated from Wilkinson High School in 1956 as an outstanding football player. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Air Force with an honorable discharge after serving several years. He then moved to New York in 1960 where he continued the relationship and married his high school sweetheart Lizzie "Liz" Zimmerman in 1961. This union was blessed with two sons, Vincent and Marvin. 

Joe employment career began at a Television Repair shop in Manhattan, NY for several years. He later returned to Orangeburg, to work in the Orangeburg School system as the Transportation Supervisor. He then served in several capacities with the Orangeburg Police Department:  first African-American Major Investigation Officer for the city and later as Interim Chief of Police. Joe’s life was devoted to protecting the citizens of Orangeburg, until his retirement in August 1993.

Joe enjoyed coaching little league football and City league women’s softball. He loved the game of golf, and was an avid golfer, travelling to various golf courses in South Carolina to tournaments with his Golf Buddies. Joe also enjoyed Bulldog football following the team to away games with his friends. He enjoyed playing bid whist with Liz and her siblings.

He was preceded in death by his two sisters; Claudell K. Dibble and Connie K.Bradley.

Joe leaves to cherish his precious memories: His devoted and caring Companion, Liz Zimmerman Keitt, of Orangeburg, SC;  two sons, Vincent (Dorothy Regina) Keitt of New York, NY; and Marvin Keitt of NJ;  three grandchildren,Vaughan(Lisa) of Woodbridge, VA;  Jabari Keitt and JanaiKeitt, of New York, NY; great-grandson, Aiden Keitt of Woodbridge, VA; niece, Valeria Bradley of Tennessee; daughter-in-law, Irma Keitt of Ladson, SC; five sisters-in-law, three brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews,  loving Cousins, his Golf Buddies  and dear friends.

The service will be held as follows:

The viewing will be held on Thursday, April 6,2023 at Glover's Funeral Home from 2:30pm until 7:00pm.

The funeral will be held on Friday, April 7,2023 at Victory Tabernacle PAW Church 681 Broughton St. Orangeburg, SC 29115 beginning at 3:30pm. All those attending service must wear a mask and adhere to all COVID-19 rules and regulations.

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