Lillie Carlisle Keith
1952 – 2025
Lillie Carlisle Keith, aged 72, peacefully passed away on Jan. 23, 2025, at Shelby Baptist Medical Center. A loving wife, devoted mother, cherished grandmother and dear friend to many, Lillie lived a life rich with love, laughter and kindness. Lillie was fondly remembered for her bright smile, kind spirit and unwavering generosity.
Born on June 27, 1952, in LaFayette, Lillie joined in Holy Matrimony with James Herschel Keith Sr. on March 31, 1972, and together they raised three devoted sons: James Jr., Nicholas and Kelvin. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lewis Taylor and Velle Lee Phillips, her husband, Herschel Keith, her sister, Janice Taylor and her son, Tyrone Jordan.
Lillie is survived by her loving sons: James Jr. of Talladega, Alabama, Nicholas Keith of Talladega, Kelvin Keith (Tiffany) of Cartersville, Georgia, and her daughter Sakenee.
J. Curry (James) of Talladega. Her legacy also lives on through her grandchildren Shanteia Beavers, Micah Jones, Carson Smith, Colby Smith, Jalisa, Jeremy, Big Man and Jerrica. She is also survived by her sisters Patricia Pryor (Anthony) of Augusta, Georgia, Jacqueline Johnson of Opelika, and Alice Stockdale of Talladega; along with her brothers Larry Phillips (Chae) of Washington, DC, Danny Phillips (Laverne) of Talladega and Bruce Phillips of Talladega; honorary brother Alvin Stockdale (Blackie) of Talladega, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Lillie attended Talladega College in Talladega. She dedicated several years of her career to Wehadkee Yarn Mills, where she earned respect for her commitment and hard work. Lillie also obtained her theology degree in Sylacauga, Alabama. She approached every task with diligence and integrity, leaving a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to work alongside her. Lillie loved shopping, thrifting, cooking and enjoying simple moments with family and friends in her leisure time. She was also passionate about caring for others.
Lillie Carlisle Keith will be deeply missed by her loving sons, grandchildren, extended family and friends. She touched many lives and will be fondly remembered for her kindness, compassion and gentle spirit.
Although Lillie may have departed this world, her love and legacy will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew her and remembered her for her kindness, compassion and gentle spirit.
Public Viewing
Thursday Jan. 30
Sims Funeral Service
431 Battle Street West
Talladega, AL 35160
Celebration of Life
Jan 31, 1 p.m. (CT)
Antioch Missionary Baptist Church
491 Old Collins Ferry Rd
Talladega, AL 35160
Repass
Jan. 31, 3 p.m. (CT)
Garrett Family Legacy LLC
41366 Cove Shocco Rd
Talladega, AL 35160
DR. MEL HOLMES
Dr. Mel Holmes, respected doctor, beloved husband, brother, uncle and friend passed away peacefully at home on Jan. 26, 2025. Born on July 11, 1943, to Roberta and Clifford Holmes, his vibrant and kind spirit brought joy and warmth to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Equipped with a razor-sharp wit, he had a talent of capturing moments, always ready to create lasting memories with his family, friends and patients.
Dr. Holmes grew up in Kingston, Ontario, where he attended medical school at Queen’s University graduating in the class of 1968. Upon graduation, he started his career in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, where he quickly established a reputation as a trusted colleague and an empathetic doctor focused on delivering compassionate care to his patients.
Seeking refuge from the harsh Canadian winters, Dr. Holmes began exploring opportunities in warmer climates. This search led him to his forever home in Roanoke. In 1978, he secured a practice, packed up his belongings and headed south to Alabama.
After several years working to establish his practice in Roanoke, Dr. Holmes met his partner Tommy Pike. In 1981, they partnered with the Lafayette Nursing Home, where he honed his style of warm and compassionate care that would become his trademark, forever holding dear the relationships with employees and residents until his passing.
Survivors include one sister Marilyn Christenson (Jerry) of Ontario; two nephews John Christenson (Janice) and Andrew Christenson, both of Ontario; and nieces Anne Christenson of Ontario and Ruth Christenson . He was preceded in death by his parents; his husband Tommy Pike and a nephew Matthew Christenson.
A service will be held at Quattlebaum Funeral Chapel (319 College St., Roanoke, Alabama) on Friday, Jan. 31, 2025, at 11 a.m. with Mark Phillips officiating. The family will also receive friends at the funeral home beginning at 10 a.m. before services begin on Friday.
Flowers will be accepted at the funeral chapel or online condolences may be expressed at www.quattlebaumfuneralhome.com.
