Keith Gilbert Jestes, age 81, passed away peacefully at his Maysville home on April 27, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and his loyal dog Tippy. He was born on January 25, 1944, in Fairport, Missouri, to Gilbert Francis and Evelyn May Jestes. Keith’s life was a testament to the values of hard work, community, and family devotion.
Keith was a proud graduate of Maysville High School Class of 1962 and served honorably in the Army National Guard for 6 years. On September 3, 1966, he married Sharon Ann (Brent), in their hometown, embarking on a journey of 58 years filled with love and partnership.
Keith’s dedication to his community was shown as he managed the Maysville R-l School District buses for 27 years and served on various boards, including the Fairport and Maysville School Boards, and the Fairport Cemetery Board. His life as a farmer was not just a profession but a passion.
He is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Barbara Halter; nephew, Doug Halter.
Keith is survived by his wife of 58 years, Sharon; son, Brent (Lindsay) Jestes; daughters, Shari Dunlap, Dusty (Chad) Scheiter, Lisa (Scott) Bray; grandchildren, Randy Jestes, Mandy (John) Sharp, Taylor Jestes, Brant (Crystal) Jestes, Dakota (Taylor) Dunlap, Dalton (Felicia) Jestes, Gabe Allen, Grayson Allen, Colten Scheiter, Piper Allen, Addilyn Scheiter; 16 great-grandchildren, Emily Lechner, Kaleb Jestes, David Sharp, Bryson Jestes, Brayden Sharp, Raylan Sharp, Brenton Jestes, Aubrey Jestes, Heavenlee Ward, Alyssandra Jestes, Kinsley Dunlap, Abyl Goodwin, Ambellina Schultz, Charlie Goodwin, Melody Jestes, and Harley Dunlap.
Graveside Funeral Services will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, May 2, 2025 at Fairport Cemetery. Memorial Contributions: Fairport Cemetery.
