James H. Keefer, Sr., 80, of Butler, PA, passed away on Friday, March 20, 2026, at Quality Life Services in Grove City.
He was born on March 13, 1946, in Butler, PA, to the late Clarence and Thelma (Kimmel) Keefer.
Jim graduated from Butler High School in the class of 1964. He went on to work out of Union IBEW Local 5 as an Electrician, until retiring in 2006. James was a proud Masonic Association Member as a Past Master of Butler Victory Lodge 694 F&AM (now Butler Victory Lodge 272), and had recently received his 50 year pin. He was also a member of the Syria Shriners – Butler Caravan 14, the Scottish Rite of New Castle, PA, the Lorraine Commandery #87, the Butler Council #61, as well as being a former Demolay Member. In addition, Jim was a member of the Butler Elks #170, and an Associate Member of the Brady Paul F.O.P. Memorial Lodge #54. Jim was an avid bowler, who participated in multiple sanctioned leagues throughout the years, having 8 impressive 300 games. He also enjoyed hunting, golfing, softball, listening to doo-wop music with Joyce, and collecting Lionel trains. Most importantly, Jim enjoyed spending time with his loving family and friends.
James is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Joyce (Pawlowicz) Keefer, whom he married on May 25, 1968; his three sons, James Keefer, Jr., Jeffrey (Nicole Murray) Keefer, and Jarrett Keefer; his daughter, Jennifer Keefer; his sister, Durfee (David) Burtner; his grand-dog, Josie; as well as by his numerous nieces and nephews.
Friends and family will be received on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, from 2:00pm to 4:00pm, and from 6:00pm to 8:00pm, at Thompson-Miller Funeral Home, Inc., 124 East North Street, Butler, PA 16001. A Masonic Service will take place at 7:30pm.
A Funeral Service will take place at 11:00am, on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Thompson-Miller Funeral Home, Inc., 124 East North Street, Butler, PA 16001, with Reverend Bob Edmundson officiating.
A Committal Service and Entombment will take place in Butler County Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim’s memory to the Shriner’s Hospital Erie, 1645 West 8th Street, Erie, PA 16505, https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/en/locations/erie/about-us/ways-to-give
All who knew Jim are encouraged to share memories and upload photos to his unique remembrance page at www.thompson-miller.com