James A. "Jim" Keller

James Allen Keller “Jim” of Chilhowee, MO passed away on December 23, 2022.

Jim was born April 17, 1946 as 1 of 7 siblings to John and Dorothy Keller. He was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings, his son Jeff Coulter and granddaughter Savannah Nash. Jim is survived by his wife Charlotte Keller, daughter Michelle Martin (Corey), son Jared Coulter (Tonia), daughter-in-law Vicki Coulter, grandchildren Kimber Doll (Alex), Ethen Coulter, Lucas, Rex, Bailey and Ruthie Coulter, Karsyn White, Jordan Novak (Zach), Cameran and Corben Martin, great grandchildren, Grace and Otto Doll, Miah Couttie and Laylin Novak.

Jim was raised in the Golden Valley area by a simple rural way of life on his parents’ farm. He excelled in basketball through his high school years, graduating from Chilhowee High School in 1964. Jim went on to serve in the United States Army as a radio teletype operator from 1965-1967. Into his adult years he enjoyed muscle cars, running with friends, playing in late night softball tournaments, coyote hunting and hustling a pool table in local establishments.

He and Charlotte wed in 1982. By 1984 they bought a farm in Chilhowee, where they would raise their family. He took much pride in providing the opportunity for his kids and grandkids to know and love life on a farm.

He made a living through his carpentry skills working construction, a member of the Laborer’s Union Local 663 and the Carpenters Union Local 777, until he retired in 2005. He then began farming full time after many years of pulling double duty.

Jim spent many long hours over the years working on his beloved farm. Whether row cropping into the wee hours of the morning to get crops in before the rain, working long hot summers in the hay field or freezing cold mornings feeding cows, he was devoted to his work.

When not working he enjoyed visiting with friends and family, a stiff drink while watching Gunsmoke or a good basketball game on TV. He especially enjoyed watching his grandkids play sports over the years. Jim beamed with pride while telling stories of their successes. He often stepped up and took on roles far beyond a grandfather when duty called.

Jim was one of a kind. A simple man with a quiet demeanor. A man of his word. A man of integrity. Strong willed and opinionated, yet gentle and humble. So humble in fact that he requested no formal service be held.

The family would enjoy a get together, a time of remembrance for drinks, snacks and reminiscing.

Date: January 7, 2023

Time: 2:00-4:00pm

Military Honors will take place promptly at 2:00pm for those who would like to attend.

Location: Jim and Charlotte Keller’s

1150 SW 901 Chilhowee, MO 64733