Deacon Joseph Keitt, Jr. was born to Joseph Keitt, Sr. and Amanda Riley Keitt in Orangeburg, South Carolina on May 2, 1937. He entered into eternal rest at his home, surrounded by his family, on February 17, 2025.

Joseph was affectionately known as "Shorty" by his family. He enjoyed fishing, traveling and spending holidays with his family. He was well-known in the neighborhood and was respected and adored by the children.

Joseph met and married the love of his life, Donnell Stanley Keitt in 1959. To this union two sons were born, Joseph Anthony Keitt and Ronald Renardo Keitt.

He was a believer in Jesus Christ and joined Andrew Chapel Baptist at an early age. Joseph was ordained as a deacon under the leadership of Pastor Leroy Taylor. He faithfully served this ministry until his health failed. For many years he served as church sexton and substitute school bus driver for Andrew Chapel Christian Academy.

Before retirement, Joseph was employed by Smith Corona, Utica Tools, Belk Hudson and St. Andrews United Methodist Church.

Joseph was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, David (Georgia Ann) Keitt and Bobby Keitt, brother-in-law, McCoy Daniels, father and mother -in- law, Willie and Estell Stanley, sisters-in-law, Myrtle Stanley and Rosa Mae Peterson.

Cherishing his precious memories are his devoted wife of 65 years, Donnell S. Keitt; sons, Joseph A. Keitt and Ronald R. Keitt; sisters, Rosa K. Daniels and Flossie (Johnnie) Watson; grandchildren, Kayli Keitt, Karlise Keitt and Ronald Keitt Jr; adopted granddaughter, Pashen Keitt; adopted grandson, Jason Knight; adopted daughters, Miranda Daniels Nixon, Sandy Daniels, Sharon Daniels, Monica Daniels Diouf and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.