Keefer

James H. Keefer Sr., 80, of Butler, passed away Friday, March 20, 2026, at Quality Life Services in Grove City.

He was born March 13, 1946, in Butler, and was the son of the late Clarence and Thelma (Kimmel) Keefer.

Jim graduated from Butler High School in the class of 1964. He went on to work out of Union IBEW Local 5 as an electrician, until retiring in 2006. James was a proud Masonic Association member as a Past Master of Butler Victory Lodge 694 F&AM (now Butler Victory Lodge 272), and had recently received his 50-year pin. He was also a member of the Syria Shriners — Butler Caravan 14, the Scottish Rite of New Castle, the Lorraine Commandery 87 and the Butler Council 61, as well as being a former DeMolay member. In addition, Jim was a member of Butler Elks 170, and an associate member of Brady Paul FOP Memorial Lodge 54. Jim was an avid bowler, who participated in multiple sanctioned leagues throughout the years, having eight impressive 300 games. He also enjoyed hunting, golfing, softball, listening to doo-wop music with Joyce and collecting Lionel trains. Most importantly, Jim enjoyed spending time with his loving family and friends.

James is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Joyce (Pawlowicz) Keefer, whom he married May 25, 1968; his three sons, James Keefer Jr., Jeffrey (Nicole Murray) Keefer, and Jarrett Keefer; his daughter, Jennifer Keefer; his sister, Durfee (David) Burtner; his granddog, Josie; as well as by his numerous nieces and nephews.

KEEFER — Friends and family of James H. Keefer Sr., who died Friday, March 20, 2026, will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at THOMPSON-MILLER FUNERAL HOME, 124 East North St., Butler. A Masonic service will take place at 7:30 p.m.

A funeral service will take place at 11 a.m., Wednesday, March 25, at the funeral home with the Rev. Bob Edmundson officiating.

A committal service and entombment will take place in Butler County Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim’s memory to the Shriners Children’s Erie hospital, 1645 W. Eighth Street, Erie, PA 16505, https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/en/locations/erie/about-us/ways-to-give

All who knew Jim are encouraged to share memories and upload photos to his unique remembrance page at www.thompson-miller.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.