Danny Lee Keel

Danny Lee Keel, born July 7, 1956, in Talihina, Oklahoma, was the son of Edmond Freeman Keel and Hilda (Murphy) Keel. He passed away on May 28, 2026, at his home in Tishomingo, Oklahoma, surrounded by loved ones after a courageous battle with cancer. Despite overcoming so much, the effects of his treatment proved too great to surmount. He graduated from Tishomingo High School in 1974, where he was a highly accomplished athlete, and later attended Murray State College in Tishomingo, Oklahoma, and East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma. Danny participated in track, football and basketball and played baseball at Murray State College. He was a member of the Tishomingo HS Letterman’s Club and lettered in all three sports. He was elected Mr. Murray at MSC his sophomore year. Danny took immense pride in his Chickasaw heritage and was a lifelong supporter of the Oklahoma Sooners. His personality filled every room, and he never met a stranger, making friends wherever life took him. His son, Zach, was the center of his world and held a special place in his heart. Throughout his life, Danny lived in many places, following his work wherever it led. He found joy in golfing, fishing, playing pool, and watching sports—simple pleasures that brought him happiness over the years. He absolutely cherished his wife, Pamela (Coleman) Keel. Caring for her and providing for her was of great importance to him, and it was evident to all who knew them that she was the love of his life. Danny had a faithful companion in his beloved dog, Penny, whom he spoiled with affection. Penny eagerly awaited their morning car rides, even when Danny was no longer able to drive. He is survived by his wife, Pamela (Coleman) Keel; his sons by marriage, Johnny Coleman of Ponca City, Oklahoma, and David Rudek of Choctaw, Oklahoma; his brothers, Don Keel of Tishomingo, Oklahoma; Jefferson Keel and wife Carol of Durant, Oklahoma; and Dale Keel and wife Kathy of Tishomingo, Oklahoma; his sisters, Kathy Bethune of Ada, Oklahoma and Virginia Sherwood of Madill, Oklahoma; his sister-in-law, Sandra Coleman of Choctaw, Oklahoma; brothers-in-law, Jerry Coleman and wife Jan, Kenny Coleman and wife Alicia, both of Midwest City, Oklahoma, and Roy Coleman and wife Shelly of Carrollton, Texas; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Danny was especially honored to be known as “Papa” to his grandchildren, Makani, Malani, Ho’olai, and Iwi of Ponca City, Oklahoma, and Avery and Tyler Rudek of Choctaw, Oklahoma. He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Zach Keel; two sisters, Hattie Chastain and Ilene Davis; and three brothers, J.B. Keel, Jerry Keel, and Tommy Keel. The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the Chickasaw Nation, Dr. Razaq, and the staff of Mercy Hospital and Victory Hospice of Tishomingo for their care, support, and kindness during Danny’s final days. Additional gratitude is extended to Danny’s lifelong friends and their families for their steadfast support during this time and his DSC work family. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, June 3, at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church in Tishomingo, Oklahoma. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Danny’s name to Shriners Hospitals for Children to honor his memory and continue his legacy of kindness. Though Danny will be deeply missed, we take comfort in knowing he is reunited with his beloved son, Zach.

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Danny Lee Keel

July 7, 1956 - May 28, 2026