William "Bill" Keene III, 86, passed away peacefully in Florida in 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Norfolk, Virginia, in 1940 to William and Cameron Keene, Bill lived a life defined by service, curiosity, and kindness. He attended military school in West Virginia before earning a scholarship to Randolph-Macon College, where he graduated in 1962.

Bill began his career at the Shock Trauma Unit in Baltimore, working alongside one of the nation's leading open-heart surgeons. During those years, he also volunteered as a Big Brother, mentoring a young boy named Rod Morgan and forming a lifelong friendship.

He married Zuleika Grullon, known to many as Mercedes, and together they built a loving family, raising three children in Rockville, Maryland: Billy, Terry, and Michelle. Throughout his career, Bill worked as a paint chemist before serving honorably in the United States Army, where his medical and chemistry background led him to assignments at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Following his military service, he became one of the original 48 employees of the Food and Drug Administration's Medical Devices and Electronic Equipment division, helping build what would become a major federal agency. He retired in 1996 after a career dedicated to improving public health.

Retirement marked the beginning of another chapter filled with travel, time spent with family, and lasting friendships. Bill was known for his generosity, love of learning, and willingness to help others, touching the lives of many wherever he lived.

In his final years, he made his home in Frederick, Maryland, before moving to Florida to be near family during his illness. He spent his last days surrounded by his three children, Mercedes, and his brother Waid, who lovingly cared for him and ensured he was comfortable and at peace.

A man of deep Christian faith, Bill faced the end of his life with gratitude, hope, and confidence in the promise of Heaven.

Bill is survived by his children, Billy, Terry, and Michelle, seven grandchildren, his brother Waid, his best friend Robin who always said, "Bill loves like Jesus" along with many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were enriched by his kindness and generosity.

He will be remembered for his unwavering faith, adventurous spirit, sharp mind, compassion for others, and the love he shared with everyone who was fortunate enough to know him.

In Lieu of flowers, please consider donating to In Touch Ministries. 800-789-1473 or http://intouch.org/about-us/ways-to-give
There will be a Military Honors service at The Florida National Cemetery on Thursday September 3, 2026, at 2PM located at 6502 SW 102nd Avenue, Bushnell, FL 33513