Winter Haven - J.C. Keene,78, of Winter Haven, died Tuesday, February 13, 2007, at his residence due to heart failure.

Born July 6, 1928 in Portland, TN, to John Clay and Iva Keene, he moved to the area in 1972 from Lavergne, TN. J.C retired as a diesel mechanic and had worked earlier in his life as a railroad supervisor and inspector.  He was a former member of Life and Praise Temple (aka The Gathering Place) in Auburndale and was a member of his local Neighborhood Watch and performed other civic duties.

His parents and his son Joel Keene precede Mr. Keene in death. 

He is survived by: his wife of 45 years, Betty Keene; three daughters, Lisa Keene of Winter Haven, FL Vicki Keene of Gallatin, TN and Theresa Morris of Gallatin, TN; a sister, Magdalene Gann of South Pittsburgh, TN; a brother, Clifton Keene of Portland, TN; Seven grandchildren: Three great-grandchildren; and his beloved dog, Bear.      

 The family will receive friends from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Thursday, Feb. 15, 2007 at Oak Ridge Funeral Care, 2425 West Havendale Blvd., Winter Haven, Fl. Funeral services will be at Oak Ridge Funeral Care at 2:00 PM Friday, Feb.16, 2007 , with Pastor Barry Greer officiating.  Interment will follow at Auburndale Memorial Park.