James Tyrrell ‘Ty’ Keller, 92

James Tyrrell “Ty” Keller, 92, passed away peacefully at home on July 18, 2025, following an extended illness. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gertrude and Theodore Keller; his brothers, “Ted” and “Jack”; and his beloved son, Tony. He is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 53 years, Lila; his daughter, Anita (Laurie) Scott; his son, Michael (Mary) Keller; and his cherished grandchildren, Lucas, Ally, Sadie, and Tony.

Ty was born in Lexington, Ky., on Oct. 22, 1932, to Gertrude and Theodore Keller. He pursued a calling to the priesthood early in life, attending Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology in Indiana, where he earned his liberal arts degree and completed two years of seminary studies. He later completed his theological training at Saint Paul Seminary in Minnesota and was ordained a Catholic priest in the Diocese of Covington, Kentucky, in 1957 at the age of 24.

He began his ministry as assistant pastor in Corbin, Ky., and then at St. Henry’s in Erlanger. While furthering his education through summer courses at Xavier University, he developed a passion for counseling and education. Ty later became the head pastor at St. Gregory Church in Barbourville, Ky., where he served for four years. It was there, on Labor Day weekend, that he met Lila – just off the bus from Milwaukee– a story his family and friends have treasured ever since.

After earning his master’s degree in education from Xavier University, Ty received dispensation from Pope Paul VI on July 4, 1972. He and Lila were married on Aug. 12 of that same year. Just two days later, they relocated to Chicago, where Ty began working for JS Paluch Publishing. In 1975, they moved to Woodstock, where Ty served as a guidance counselor at Marian Central Catholic High School before returning to publishing. He retired at the age of 72 but remained deeply engaged in the Woodstock community – coaching youth basketball, serving faithfully at St. Mary Catholic Church, and volunteering on the boards of the local credit union and Catholic schools. In 2018, Ty and Lila moved to Elkin, N.C, though their hearts remained connected to many dear friends in Woodstock.

Ty will be remembered for his thoughtful nature, sharp intellect, joyful spirit, and generous heart. His life was a testament to quiet faith and deep love. He served Christ not only through ministry, but also through his daily actions – his prayers, his humility, and his intentional presence with family, friends, and community. His most precious example will always be the love and respect he held for his wife, Lila.

Though our hearts grieve his absence, we are filled with gratitude for the example he set and the love he shared. Ty’s legacy lives on in every life he touched. May we honor him by walking in the same spirit of faith, service, love and compassion.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Stephen Catholic Church in Elkin, NC on Tuesday, August 5, 2025 at 11am with a lunch reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to any of the following: St. Mary of Woodstock School Foundation, Woodstock, IL, Mountain Valley Hospice, Elkin, NC or St. Stephen Church, Elkin, NC.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.”
—Matthew 25:21