Mr. Robert Keene, Sr., 80, of Petersburg, Virginia, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on February 14, 1945, he was the son of the late Royden Keene and Hermaine Whaley Keene. Robert was a man who brought people together wherever he went.

Educated in the New York Public Schools, Robert worked for the Port Authority and later in construction for many years. He was known for his strong work ethic, dependability, and the pride he took in every job he completed.

Robert had a deep love for young people. In his spare time, he volunteered with the Youth Boxing Association in New York City, investing in the next generation with encouragement and discipline. Although he enjoyed his years in New York, his heart remained in Virginia. Upon returning home, Robert was baptized and gave his life to Christ at Bethany Missionary Baptist Church in Petersburg, VA.

At Bethany, he served faithfully as a Trustee and van driver, always willing to lend a helping hand. After retiring from Fort Lee, Virginia, Robert launched a lawn care business and a transportation service. He was dedicated to his customers, ensuring their lawns were well-kept and that those he transported arrived safely to their destinations. His humor, boldness, kindness, and generous spirit made him cherished by many.

Robert found great joy in caring for his home - planting flowers, improving the yard, and creating a warm, welcoming space he shared with his beloved wife, Reverend Merle O. Keene. He was a devoted father to his children: Robert Keene, Jr., Minister Patricia K. Booker (Theodore), Talite Keene Hooper (Keith), Adrienne Richardson, Karen Winfield, and Kevin Richardson. Robert embraced his role as both parent and mentor, creating a legacy of love, unity, and guidance.

He was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Reverend Merle O. Keene; his parents, Royden and Hermaine Keene; and his brothers, George Whaley, Nathaniel Whaley, Fredrick Keene, Tony Whaley, and William Keene. He is survived by his baby brother, Corinthian Martin (Lilian).

Robert's greatest joy was witnessing the success of his grandchildren: Robert Keene III, Rashawn Keene, Raquan Keene, Kmon Keene, Theodore Booker III (Alexis), Tacoria Dabney, Terrell Dabney (Stephanie), Terry Dabney (Latoya), Keith Hooper Jr. (Krissy), and Timara Hargrave (OBrian). He also leaves behind great‑grandchildren: OBrian Hargrave, Jr., Tamar Hargrave, Tamir Hargrave, Terrell Jr., Tkore Dabney, Tyty Dabney, Cherysh Dabney, Maurice Dabney, Taveyon Dabney, Dreshawn Dabney, Madison Keene, Sariyah Keene, Naomi Keene and Zechariah Keene.

Services will be held 11:00 A.M., Thursday, February 12, 2026, in the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Lamont A. Hobbs, eulogist. The interment to follow at Wilkerson Memorial Cemetery.

A wake will be held from 7:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M., Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at the funeral establishment.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page or click here to view: https://vimeo.com/event/5723288?fl=so&fe=fs