Charles T. Keir, Major, USAF (Retired)
February 02, 1938 – March 04, 2025

KELLER – Major Charles Thornton Keir, USAF, retired, born on February 2, 1938, passed into the presence of our Lord on February 20, 2025.

Funeral Services: 9:30 a.m., Friday, March 21, 2025, in Greenwood’s Live Oak Chapel, 3100 White Settlement Rd., Fort Worth, Texas 76107. Followed by a graveside service with military honors.

Chuck Keir was born and raised in Quincy, Massachusetts. Chuck’s parents both passed away by the time he was 18. In high school, he played on the basketball team and sang in the school choir. He was a member of the Boy Scouts and served in the Civil Air Patrol. His life’s path seemed to have divine guidance, as every aspect of his life and early military career led him toward his destiny of becoming a pilot.

After graduating high school, Chuck joined the United States Air Force as an airman in 1955. In 1960, his life’s ambition of being able to fly was achieved when he graduated from pilot training. The Air Force allowed Chuck to fly and see the world. While stationed at Carswell Air Force Base, he met his future wife, Rita. They married in August of 1962. Chuck served in the Vietnam theater, flying C-130 transports, B-52’s, and eventually helicopters with the Green Hornets. Chuck earned multiple medals and commendations, including 3 Distinguished Crosses, Air Medals, and the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry. Chuck retired from the Air Force in 1975, at the rank of Major.

After retirement from the military, Chuck worked in sales and focused on his young family and his relationship with God. He was active in the community, coaching youth sports, and was also active in his church. He taught Sunday school and Bible studies, sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Chuck’s home was a God-centered welcoming place for any visitor. His love of singing from his youth continued as he joined the Texas Millionaires Chorus. Chuck always had a good story to tell, and he loved to build things in his shop.

Chuck was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Eliza Keir; brother, Alexander D. Keir; infant son, Thomas; wife, Rita; and son, Richard.
He is survived by his daughter, Sharon Gabrielson; son-in-law, John; grandson, Ty; and several nephews and nieces.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in the name of Chuck Keir to Roll-Call of North Texas. Donations can be mailed to P.O. Box 35052, Fort Worth, Texas 76162, or online at https://roll-call.org.

GREENWOOD FUNERAL HOME
Greenwood Funeral Homes – Cremation
3344 White Settlement Road, Fort Worth, TX 76107
817-336-0584

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As a Captain, Charles T. Keir served a tour in the Vietnam War as a UH-1F/P pilot with the USAF 20th SOS “Green Hornets” in the 1969-1970-time frame.