James Cass Keeler, went on into eternity January 6, 2024.
Cass was born on November 14, 1961, to Jimmy and Dona Sue Keeler. The youngest of four, he was the baby through and through. He was taken care of not only by his parents and three older sisters; but also by the amazing community he called home for most of his life, the great people of Deming, NM.
The family worked hard on their farm south of Deming, clearing the land, digging ditches, and farming everything from pigs to produce. Cass played hard too. In high school, he excelled at everything he participated in. He loved playing football, basketball, and baseball. He even played third base during the 1980 state championship game for the undefeated Deming Wildcats. He was also involved in
4-H and FFA. He loved and supported these organizations all of his life.
At 19, Cass left home to serve the People of Oslo, Norway, and served a two year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He was still able to speak fluent Norwegian 40 years later.
Cass attended New Mexico State University where he earned a degree in Ag Business and met his dear wife of 39 years, Anne. After just 6 months of dating, Cass and Anne tied the knot for time and all eternity at the LDS temple in Mesa Arizona.
After their marriage and earning their education, Cass and Anne moved to Deming to begin a wonderful life in Southern New Mexico. There, they raised four amazing children, onions, green Chile, cotton and hay. They opened and ran a successful produce shed and gymnastics school. It was there that they taught their family to work, play, love and serve.
Cass worked hard. He never ceased to serve and support his family and community. He served on multiple boards and committees including; vice president of Deming Little League and multiple roles on the SWSF Board. He found great joy in coaching the youth of the community. As Coach Cass, he headed multiple baseball teams, basketball, pop warner football and many others. He was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and served in many roles including bishopric, young men’s, and high council.
Cass was the life of the party, he was a friend to all, and he always made room for others. He taught us to work and to love hard. To not just dream big dreams but to actually make them happen. His life is a testament to his faith.
He is survived by his wife Anne; his children Britney (Justin Power), Cassel (Julianna), Kursty (Colton Pickup), and Catlin (Jovonni); 11 grandchildren; His Father, James Keeler and three sisters; Nyna Tryon, Kerrie Keeler, and Abby Peterson.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Dona Sue Keeler.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 12, 2024; 10:00am at the Church of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints. A graveside dedication will be held following services.
Pallbearers will be Steve Allen, Justin Power, Colton Pickup, Matt Tryon, Stuart Peterson, Wacey Allen, Justin Allen, Evan Call and Darren Albrecht.
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