Lilly Mae Keene

With a mixture of sadness and sweet memories, my sister and I announce the passing of our mother, Lilly Mae Davis Keene, who was born on July 5, 1940, to Jack (William T.) Davis and Mildred Davis of Elkmont, AL. Known affectionately as "Lil" to family and friends, she was a spirited, loving, kind, extreme Intellect. and sharp-witted soul who left an indelible mark on everyone lucky enough to know her. Lil’s birthday, the day after Independence Day, seemed fitting as she could indeed be a firecracker. She shared her life with the love of her life, D. Wesley Keene of Meridian, MS. Between them, they had three daughters, Dana Bayless Hobbs (Bradley), D. Dell Bayless, and Jennifer Keene Duke (Phillip) and Christopher Keene (Brandy). Dana and Dell lovingly referred to her as “Mama,” a name that carried the warmth, wisdom, and love she poured into their lives. Wesley was their treasured “Bonus Dad,” a testament to the close and special bond they shared as a family. As a cosmetologist for over 50 years and the proud owner of A Touch of Class, Lil was a heartbeat of her community. Her salon wasn’t just a business; it was a place where stories were shared, friendships were made, and laughter filled the air. With all her years behind the salon chair, we can only imagine the countless phone calls she answered. She had an unmatchable gift for connecting with people—walking into the store for a loaf of bread meant you should plan on at least a two-hour trip because she knew everyone in the city and county. Her sharp wit and conversational charm made her the kind of person people couldn’t help but gravitate toward. She could turn any encounter into an opportunity to giving back, leaving warmth and joy in her wake. Lil also had a passion for treasure hunting, and she was ready to go whenever there was a good yard sale, estate sale, thrift store, or dig store to explore. Whether with Wesley, her dear friends, her daughters, or her grandkids, she delighted in the thrill of discovering hidden gems. With all the knick-knacks left behind, it’s safe to say that she truly *loved* treasure hunting. Lil was also a passionate gardener who shared her love of flowers with everyone she met. Her extensive knowledge of plants made her the go-to person for questions like, “Mama, how much should I water my snake plant?” or “Ms. Lil, what kind of plant is this?” And whether you asked or not, she might give you some unsolicited advice on your own plants, flowers, or trees, suggesting things like, “You need to trim those shrubs!” She generously shared her flowers and plants all over the county, brightening the community with her green thumb and boundless generosity. It makes our hearts smile knowing she’s likely arranging flowers for Jesus right now, and she may even have Wesley adding ferns or other blooms to the Pearly Gates. Lil was blessed with five siblings, each of whom held a special place in her heart: Murl Davis Jones of Lafayette, AL; Robbie (Bob) Davis Tucker of Athens, AL; and Jim Davis, Lee Davis, and Ray (PR) Davis, all of Elkmont, AL. At just 5 feet, Lil was the “little one” among her towering siblings, most of whom were close to or over 6 feet tall. Growing up with them taught her to be a fiesty, or to charm them into treating her as the princess. Her family ties were a source of joy and pride, and her siblings were cherished companions throughout her life. Known as “Nana” to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Lil’s presence was a beloved cornerstone of their lives. She is survived by her grandchildren, Morgan Davis Hobbs (Nicole), James Cody Lindsay, Gina Hobbs Cagle (Drew), Evan Grimes, Abby Keene, Alex Keene, and Andrew Keene, as well as her cherished great-grandchildren: Gracelynn Hobbs, Diezel Hobbs, Lynlee Cagle, and her namesake, Lettie Mae Cagle. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought immense joy to her life, and she loved each of them deeply. Lil’s faith was a guiding force in her life. Her Lindsay Lane Baptist church family, especially the widows' group, brought her profound happiness and lasting friendships. This special group of friends enriched her life with laughter, support, and fellowship. Known for her razor-sharp humor, Lil was quick with a clever remark, and she wasn’t shy about sharing her thoughts, always with a sweet smile and those Mama eyes that meant get busy! Her humor, resilience, and presence made her a beacon of light for friends and family alike. On November 7, 2024, when Lil left us, the world became just a bit dimmer; the light she brought to every room, every heart, was one-of-a-kind and irreplaceable. Her passing leaves a void that can only be filled by the cherished memories and laughter she left behind. Visitation will be held at Limestone Chapel on November 14, 2024, from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM, followed by her graveside service at Hodges Cemetery in Pettusville, AL, with Joe Teal officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to Hospice of Limestone County ([hospiceolc.org/donate](https://hospiceolc.org/donate/)) and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital ([stjude.org/give](https://www.stjude.org/give.html)). Mama, I’ll love and miss you for the rest of my days.

Lilly Mae Keene

July 5, 1940 - November 7, 2024