Norman Keenan Obituary

Norman B. "Rusty" Keenan III CHARLESTON - Norman B. "Rusty" Keenan III, 80, of Charleston, South Carolina, husband of Wendy Harmon Keenan entered into eternal rest Sunday, July 6, 2025. His Funeral Service will be held Saturday, July 12, 2025 in the J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., Mount Pleasant Chapel, 1494 Mathis Ferry Road at 1:00 pm. Interment will follow in Mt. Pleasant Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends Friday, July 11, 2025 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm in J. Henry Stuhr Inc., Mount Pleasant Chapel. Rusty was born April 17, 1945 in Charleston, South Carolina, son of the late Norman B. Keenan, Jr. and the late Frances Bremer Keenan. Rusty's educational journey began at Bishop England High School, where he graduated in 1963. Following this formative period, he enrolled in seminary, dedicating three and a half years to this path before feeling the call to serve his country. He enlisted in the United States Army, bravely serving in Vietnam, and upon returning home, he continued his commitment to service in the Army Reserve. His pursuit of education did not end there; he returned to the classroom as a veteran student at The Citadel and proudly graduated in 1974. After completing his education, Rusty embarked on a successful career with the U.S. Postal Service, where he dedicated approximately 30 years before retiring. Beyond his professional achievements, Rusty was an avid sports enthusiast, fervently supporting the Clemson Tigers and the Atlanta Braves. He found joy in playing golf and was an active member of the East Cooper Shag Club, where he enjoyed dancing. An avid fisherman, he holds the state record for catching a silky shark, an accomplishment that reflects both his love for the ocean and his adventurous spirit. Throughout his life, Rusty remained a dedicated athlete, notably contributing to the Bishop England Basketball Team that clinched the state championship in 1963. Rusty is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Wendy Keenan, who stood by him through all of life's challenges. He leaves behind his sister, Kathy Dornato (Lou), and his brother, Michael Keenan (Carolyn), and grandsons, Keenan T. Pope and Zachary L. Pope and several nieces and nephews. Additionally, he is survived by his former son-in-law, Frank Pope (Kelly) and their daughter, Mary Cathryn Cronk (Ethan) and their son, Everett. Mary Cathryn was like a granddaughter to him. He was preceded in death by his son, John Keenan, stepdaughter, Stacy Pope, and siblings, Muriel Keenan, Jane Keenan Miller, and Donna Keenan Byrd. Rusty's spirit will continue to uplift those who had the privilege of knowing him. The strength and courage he displayed through various health challenges serve as a reminder of his character and his selflessness in placing the needs of others above his own. In our hearts, we recognize that life will not be the same without Rusty; we love him deeply and will miss him terribly. As we reflect on the many cherished memories we have, we take solace in knowing that he is now resting peacefully. Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association, PO box 7023, Marrifield, VA 22116-7023. Arrangements by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., Mt. Pleasant Chapel. A memorial message may be sent to the family by visiting our website at www.jhenrystuhr.com.