Obituary: Keithly, Gilbert Joel
He was the son of Thomas J. Keithly and A. Bounita (Williamson) Keithly, born December 23, 1935 in Weiser, Idaho.
He was raised and attended school in Midvale, Idaho until his family moved to Boise in 1948.
He then graduated from Boise High School.
His further education included Boise Junior College, University of Idaho and Stanford University.
His education was in the medical field until his interest turned to theology and he then continued his education to become an Episcopal priest.
Gilbert worked in hospitals both the Council and McCall, Idaho during his college years.
He served as an Episcopal Priest in Idaho churches, in Moscow, Lewiston, Grangeville, and the surrounding area for more than nine years.
He then worked for many years, until his retirement, in administrative positions for the Washington State Health and Welfare Department helping to develop and expand services for the handicapped and he was instrumental in the development of group homes.
Gib was very proud of his Keithly (Keithley) heritage in that his great-grandparents were among the earliest settlers in Middle Valley (Midvale) in 1876 in what is known today as the Keithley Creek area.
He took a keen interest in the genealogy of the Keithly (Keithley) family.
He spent most of his retirement years in research and writing with regard to the history of the many individuals and relationships of this complex makeup of families.
He expanded his writings to include many friends from his younger years and his experiences growing up in his beloved Midvale.
Gilbert was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Kathryn Whiteman.
He is survived by his brother, Roger Keithly (Kay) and nieces and nephews.
A family gathering will be held to bury his ashes in the Keithley Creek Cemetery.
Community Cremation & Funeral Spokane Valley 509-926-2020 or www.communitycremationandfuneral.com