Melva Keen

Melva Keen, affectionately known as “Peaches” to those close to her, was born on July 1, 1937, in Odessa, Texas, to George W. and Lila Sherrod.

Melva fell asleep in death on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at the age of 88, peacefully surrounded by her loving family.

Melva dedicated her life to her faith and was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses on June 18, 1950. Her relationship with Jehovah was deeply meaningful to her, and she faithfully lived her life according to Bible principles and guidelines.

She will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, and dear friend. Melva had a special gift for bringing joy to others, whether through her warm personality, her humor, or her many talents. She was an exceptional baker, known for making the best cookies in town, and her chocolate fudge cake—fondly known in the family as the “funeral cake”—was always a favorite. She was also a talented seamstress and enjoyed gardening. Even in her final days, Melva maintained her wonderful sense of humor, often catching others off guard with her wit.

She is survived by her children, Debra Keen; Jimmy Keen and his wife, Rebecca; and Greg Keen and his wife, Michelle. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Jennifer Soltero and her husband, Roque; Hannah Pitts and her husband, Cameron; Wade Keen; Devean Keen; and Oliver Keen; as well as her great-grandchild, Harper Ray Pitts. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and adopted grandchildren who loved her dearly.

Melva was preceded in death by her husband, Jimmy W. Keen; her father, George W. Sherrod; her mother, Lila Sherrod Lambreth; her brother, Stanley Sherrod; and her sister, Peggy Smith.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, located at 3101 S. Canal St., Carlsbad, NM. The service will be officiated by Elder Roque M. Soltero.

For those unable to attend in person, the memorial service will also be available via Zoom:

Meeting ID: 820 1360 6548 

Password: 339063