With heavy hearts, we say goodbye to a truly remarkable man, Keith Wills, who died on February 28, 2024, at the age of 90.

Keith served as a teacher and coach; and believed that to teach is to touch a life forever. He was a source of endless wisdom, laughter, and love to his family and students.

Born in 1934 in Paragould, Keith dedicated his life to teaching and coaching in Russellville and Walnut Ridge before finishing his career as the director of the Physical Education Department at Arkansas Tech University where he served for 30 years. But he wasn't just about books and games; he was all about lighting up young minds and shaping strong characters.

On and off the field, Keith was more than a coach; he was a mentor, a cheerleader, and a friend. He didn't just teach his players how to win games; he taught them how to win at life—instilling in them values of teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship that went far beyond the scoreboard. Keith was a man with a dry sense of humor, quick wit, and love of a good joke that sometimes only he understood.

Above all, Keith was a family man through and through. For 65 wonderful years, he and his beloved wife, Phyllis Wills, built a home filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. He spent his free time with the family camping, fishing, canoeing, hunting, and playing games.

He was a 3rd degree member of the Knights of Columbus, Russellville Council 6398.  He enjoyed an occasional poker game with his fellow Knights.

Together, he and Phyllis raised four children, Elane (Wills) Hudson, Kevin Wills, Ellen (Wills) Hefner, and Kyle Wills, passing on to them the same values of kindness, integrity, and resilience that defined their own lives.

In the hearts of his 11 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren, Keith leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter that will never fade. His presence at family gatherings, with his trademark smile and gentle wisdom, brought joy and inspiration to all who were lucky enough to know him. The grandkids, nieces and nephews always loved going to visit him.

While we'll miss him dearly, we find comfort in knowing that Keith is now reunited with his granddaughter, Taylor Ann, and daughter-in-law, Nola, and two brothers Scott and Whitney Wills who preceded him in death. Together, they'll watch over us, their spirits forever intertwined in our memories.

Keith's impact on our lives is immeasurable, his legacy enduring in the countless lives he touched. So, let's not say goodbye; let's say, "See you later." And until we meet again, may his memory be a beacon of light in our lives, guiding us with the lessons of love, compassion, and service that he so beautifully exemplified.

A celebration of Keith's life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, March 6, 2024, at the Church of The Assumption in Atkins with Father Omar officiating. Burial will be in Atkins Catholic Cemetery under the direction of Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville.

The family will receive friends Tuesday evening from 4:30-6:00 p.m., with a Rosary to begin at 6:00 p.m. in the Shinn Chapel. All are welcome to join in honoring his memory and sharing stories of his remarkable life.

Memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516.

Online guestbook and condolences available at www.shinnfuneral.com.