Eagles Pizza Owner Thomas Griffiths Keesee

Thomas Griffiths Keesee, 83 of New Albany, Ohio died peacefully at home surrounded with family. He was born December 31, 1928 in Columbus, Ohio to Catherine (Griffiths) and Everett Lenwood Keesee who both preceded him in death. The 1946 North High School Graduate worked as a bee keeper for Deer Creek Honey Farms of London, Ohio until entering the Navy on October 11, 1950. Discharged April 9, 1954 as a Hospital Corpsman Second Class, he served aboard the USS Muliphen. Married July 12, 1953 to Marjorie C. Doran of New Albany while home on leave, he and his war bride recently celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary. He also worked at White Westinghouse in management before obtaining New Albany’s Eagles Villa Pizza in 1971 and Johnstown’s Villa Pizza in 1973 where he was called “Boss” by hundreds of employees over the last 41 years. Active in community, he was a member of the New Albany Lion’s Club, New Albany Country Club, 32 Degree Mason (Triangle Lodge), Faith Life Church Veteran’s Group, had coached Little League Baseball and participated on many early New Albany planning committees. Member of Franklin United Brethren Church for many years but presently worshiped at his son Gary’s Faith Life Church. Known for his quick witted sense of humor, this giving and respected businessman is survived by brother, Everett (Mike) Keesee; wife, Marjorie Keesee; son, Gary (Drenda) Keesee; daughter, Krista (Rick) Eldridge; daughter, Rhonda (Eric) Adams; and son, Dennis (Teresa) Keesee. He is the loving Grandpa to 17 grandchildren, Kasey, Ryan, Randall, Roland, Rodney, Kara, Amy, Timothy, Gary Thomas, Pollyanne, Kirsten, Corey, Rachel, Megan, Elias, Jacob, Tirzah and one new great-grandchild Journey. Visiting hours are extended to all, Monday October 8, 4-8:30 p.m. and Tuesday 10 a.m., with services to follow at 11 a.m., at the FaithLifeChurch, 2407 Beech Rd, Johnstown, OH 43031. Pastor Gary Keesee officiating. Internment at MaplewoodCemetery. ARRANGEMENTS MADE BY SCHOEDINGER NORTHEAST CHAPEL. Visit www.schoedinger.com to share a special memory or extend condolences.
Published in The Columbus Dispatch on October 7, 2012