James L. Keith Jr. (father) and Colleen Keith (stepmother) Mt. Washington, KY are saddened to announce the passing of James Eric Keith (8-10-1980 - August 31, 2021). James "Eric" Keith was born on August 9, 1980, in Indianapolis, Indiana to Michelle Brewington and James L. Keith and died in his hometown of Louisville, KY at the age of 41. Eric was diagnosed with diabetes, a terrible disease, one that affected him in immeasurable ways. He survived a cancer diagnosis earlier this year. Eric never allowed his illness to stop him from pursuing his dreams, career, and from having a family. He diligently worked toward his goals of becoming a chef and dreamed of owning a fleet of food trucks that he would run along-side his brothers.
Eric joined the US Military, a specialist in the US Army, until he was injured while on active duty. As a specialist in the army, he was enamored with all possibilities available to him, his eyes opened and his future bright he would go on to pursue his passion of the culinary arts. Eric, a proud veteran of the 101st Airborne, served his country from 2000 to 2004 at Fort Campbell, KY. Eric had many stories of faith, pride, and perseverance for his country. His charisma shined brighter around his friends and family that he had so cherished.
As a child Eric, was a precocious young boy, asking questions, wanting to try different foods at my behest, I took him to the Grand Central Station In Indianapolis where I put on a twenty seat presentation, with local business men and women, not thinking that he would want anything on the menu, I coxed him into trying the crab legs, from that point on into adulthood he and I shared a passion for the finer foods of life. Although we went down different paths, years later he decided to become a Chef, he attended to Sullivan University, Louisville, KY and graduated with honors.
Eric is survived by his daughter Layla (8); and brothers, Michael (30), Sean (26), and Collin (25). Eric had a large extended family that further included several cousins, uncles, and aunts. Aunt Gwen & Uncle Gar, to name a few, he absolutely loved his grandparents (Mary, and Glenn with all his heart). Eric lost his mother "Michelle Brewington "aka Michelle Nichols" several years ago, he was her only child. My family's wishes are to help us celebrate our son's life together. Dad
Visitation will be 1 to 5 pm on Sunday, September 12, 2021 at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals and Receptions, East Louisville Chapel, 235 Juneau Drive, Louisville, Kentucky. A celebration of Eric's life will be there at 5pm. Burial will be at noon on Monday, September 13, 2021 at Resthaven Memorial Park, 4400 Bardstown Road, Louisville, Kentucky.
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