Keller H. Gaither, Jr. was born on March 19, 1931, in McKeesport, PA, to his parents Keller H. Gaither and Julia Woods. He was the oldest of three children: Evoria Gaither Williams and Richard L. Gaither.

Keller graduated from Fifth Avenue High School in 1949 and went on to study at the Cleveland College of Mortuary School. He also received his Bachelor of Science, Masters and PHD from Duquesne University.

Keller worked different jobs throughout his lifetime. He was a Mortician prior to his enrollment in the military.  From 1952 to 1954, Keller served in the U.S. Army as a Private 1. After his enlistment, Keller taught History and became a director at Ozanam Culture Center and then later served as the Vice Principal and Principal of Oliver High School.

Keller was married to LaNona Priestly Gaither and they raised 5 children together: Dwight Williams, Bonita Williams Krista, Yvonne Gaither Evans, Keller C. Gaither, and Autumn Davis Gaither. Keller later married Donna Murphy and they raised 3 children together: Duane Wells, Brian Gaither and Erick Gaither.

Keller enjoyed fishing and he stated it brought him peace. Every summer his grandchildren would join him as they fish together. Keller drew and wrote his own poem and a book. He also loved Western shows and James Bond movies. He entertained his children and caregivers with his funny stories.

Keller H. Gaither, Jr. peacefully transitioned at home in Pittsburgh, PA on Saturday, July 13, 2024.

He is preceded in death by his parents: Keller and Julia Gaither; siblings: Evoria Gaither Williams and Richard L. Gaither; first wife: LaNona Priestly Gaither; and daughter: Bonita Williams Krista.

He leaves to cherish his memory his wife: Donna Murphy; children: Dwight Williams (Stephanie), Yvone Evans (Alphonso), Keller C. Gaither (Lisa), Autumn Gaither Davis (Michael), Duane Wells (Sarita), Brian Gaither, and Erick Gaither; Grandchildren: Andrew, Rachael, Alphonso, Alexandria, Sarah, Emanuel, Samuel, Maya, Imara, Carah, Chloe, Erick, Jr., and Sicily; Great-Grandchildren: Jaedyn, Nia, Mason, Kyra, Brooklyn, Marcus Jr., Madison, and Emanuel, Jr.; and a host of relatives and friends too numerous to mention.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 24, 2024 at New Birth Ministries; 406 West Grant Ave, Duquesne, PA 15110. Visitation: 10:30am to 11:30am; Service: 11:30am; Interment: National Cemetery of the Alleghenies.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to West Funeral Home; 2215 Wylie Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15219; tel: 412-471-2626