Helen Lee Keyes

Helen Lee Keyes, age 79, formerly of Asheboro passed away on Wednesday, October 21, 2020. Helen was born in Knoxville, TN on February 12, 1941 to Martha Cullen Lee and William Baxter Lee. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, R. Glen Keyes. She is survived by her daughter, Cynthia Keyes Miller and her husband, David Miller of Banner Elk, NC; granddaughter, Abigail Miller; sisters, Nancy (Claude) Crass, Eleanor Ripley, and Martha Lee; nieces, Ann (Chuck) Breidenbach, Alisa Ripley, Monica Ripley (Scott Cardwell); nephew, Charles Baxter Padget; and beloved great nieces and nephew. She was an active member of the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd in Asheboro, NC and later returned to her childhood church, St. John's Episcopal Cathedral in Knoxville, TN. Helen attended Saint Mary's College in Raleigh, NC and the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, TN for her undergraduate studies. She received her master's degree in Social Work from Columbia University in New York, NY. She devoted her life to the service of others, as was evident by the many people she helped in her mental health practice. She was well-regarded for her philanthropic works in the community through Rotary and other organizations. Through her passion for and long-tenured involvement with the NC Social Work Certification and Licensure Board, she was instrumental in the advancement of the field of Social Work. Helen touched and influenced the lives of many through her work, positivity, and generous nature. Unfailing in her support and love, she had a unique ability to share a new perspective with those lucky enough to meet her. With a free spirit and an adventurous soul, she lived life to its fullest. The family will gather to celebrate her life and for burial and service at St. John's Episcopal Cathedral in Knoxville, TN. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to the Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation (alzinfo.org). Pugh Funeral Home in Asheboro is serving the Keyes family.