Beloved Matriarch Mrs. Jannie Mae Keith Passes Away

In loving memory of a cherished matriarch

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News Summary

Mrs. Jannie Mae Rush Keith, a respected matriarch in Florence, SC, passed away at the age of 94. Known for her faith, community service, and family dedication, her legacy continues through her children and numerous grandchildren. She contributed significantly to her church and community, making a lasting impact in many lives. Services will be held soon to honor her memory.

Florence, SC – Beloved Matriarch Mrs. Jannie Mae Keith Passes Away at 94

Mrs. Jannie Mae Rush Keith, a cherished figure in her community and a matriarch to her family, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at Heritage Nursing Home in Florence, South Carolina. She was 94 years old.

Born on October 31, 1930, in Timmonsville, SC, Mrs. Keith was the beloved daughter of the late Possum Rush and Queen Ester Nelson McClain. Throughout her life, she embraced many affectionate names including “Jannie Mae,” “Mama,” “Grandma,” “Grannie,” and “Mother Keith.” Known for her deep faith, she regularly expressed her devotion with the phrase “Praise the Lord.”

Mrs. Keith devoted her early life to her faith and joined St. Mark Freewill Baptist Church at a young age. Her contributions to the church were significant; she served diligently as an usher, a missionary, and a member of the Pastor’s Aide Committee while also lending her voice to the senior choir. Beyond her church activities, Mrs. Keith involved herself in various community outreach efforts, including programs focused on prison outreach and adult day care services, showcasing her commitment to helping others.

Professionally, Mrs. Keith worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Bethea Baptist Home, providing care and compassion to many within her community. Her nurturing spirit extended to her hobbies as well; Mrs. Keith excelled in cooking, fishing, sewing, and crocheting, frequently sharing her talents with family and friends.

Throughout her life, Mrs. Keith was a proud member of the Order of the Eastern Star Beacon Light Chapter #230. Her legacy is underscored by her deeply rooted family connections. She was preceded in death by her husband of over 61 years, Joseph Keith Sr., along with three children: Patricia, Janie, and Joseph Jr. She also mourned the loss of two grandchildren, Ronald Jr. and Ferdinando, as well as four siblings: Mary, Viola, Willie, and Hue Allen.

Mrs. Keith is survived by her two daughters, Doretha Keith Gandy and Jo Ann K. (Louis) Pugh. The family continues to grow and carry forward her legacy, including fifteen grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and a wide network of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and extended family.

Friends and community members are invited to pay their respects to the Keith family beginning Friday, July 25, 2025. Visiting hours will be held from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Ms. Doretha Keith’s residence, located at 1306 Survival Dr, Darlington, SC. Additionally, a public visitation is scheduled for Sunday, July 27, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Mitchell-Josey Funeral Home at 612 S Main St, Darlington, SC.

The Order of the Eastern Star will hold a Last Rites service at 6:00 PM on July 27, 2025, in the chapel of Mitchell-Josey Funeral Home. Mrs. Keith’s funeral service will take place on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Bethlehem Baptist Church, located at 113 N. Tanyard St, Timmonsville, SC, with interment to follow at Hart No. 2 Cemetery on Timmonsville Hwy, Darlington, SC.

The management and staff of Mitchell-Josey Funeral Home express their sincere condolences to the Keith family during this difficult time.