Keister, Donald Steven

Donald Steven Keister, 62, passed to his eternal peace and rest on February 9th 2018 at his home in White Gate, VA. He was proceeded in death by his father, Donald Stinson Keister and mother, Ruth Hedge Keister.

Survived by Lynn Thrasher Keister, wife and friend of 38 years; daughter, Kelly Vaughan, husband Matthew Vaughan, and expectant grandson; daughter, Sarah Williams, husband Mike Williams, and grandchildren Lacy and Tavin Williams; brother, John Keister; devoted family friend, Jamil Atway and his beloved dog, Harley.

Steve was a proud member of the Iron Workers Union for 35 years, an avid Harley Davidson rider, and a member of the White Gate community for 39 years. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and was a self-made man devoted to his family, friends and beloved dog Harley. Steve’s stories and laughter filled a room and he always helped those in need. Southern rock could always be heard in the background at the house and we know Steve is still singing and dancing, while looking upon us next to Ronnie Van Zant, Jimi Hendrix, Waylon Jennings and of course John Wayne.

He grew up running through the kitchen of the Gap Restaurant in Little Creek, which sparked his love of Southern cuisine. He truly enjoyed hosting family gatherings and was a believer of traditions, as he recreated the Gap’s country ham recipe every holiday. It has certainly been said that “no one has ever left the Keister home hungry.”

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, February 14, 2018 at 1:00 P.M. at A. Vest & Sons Funeral Home Chapel, White Gate, with Pastor Harry Lee Gunter officiating. Burial will follow in Oakwood Cemetery, Pulaski. The family will receive friends Tuesday, February 13, 2018 at the funeral home from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made in Steve’s honor to the TS Dalton Memorial Scholarship Fund of New River Community College, c/o NRCC Educational Foundation, 5251 College Dr., Dublin, VA 24084.

The Keister family is in the care of A. Vest & Sons Funeral Home, White Gate, avestandsons.com, (540) 921-2985.