Obituary: Joseph Bernard ‘Bernie’ Keene, 93, Bardstown
Joseph Bernard Keene, 93, of Bardstown, died Thursday, Nov. 28, 2019. He was born in Bardstown Oct. 14, 1926. He was the son of the late Twyman and Harriett Nally Keene.
He served the Commonwealth of Kentucky in multiple positions including state representative and commissioner of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board. He was an avid community volunteer, his leadership benefitted numerous charitable and civic organizations, including Habitat for Humanity, United Way of Nelson County and the Knights of Columbus.
He was the first Nelson Countian elected as a member of the Catholic Archdiocese of Louisville School Board. He also contributed to farming advancement through the National Farmers Organization and was a proud U.S. Army veteran.
He was a graduate of St. Joseph Preparatory School and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Kentucky State University. He will be remembered for his quick wit, optimism, patience, willingness to help others, service to his community, and love for his family and pets. His actions generated positive impacts for individuals and industry.
During retirement years, he and Dorothy opened their gracious home as a bed and breakfast. He had a gift for telling stories of Kentucky history and politics over his signature Southern breakfast and at cocktail hour. He lived a life full of purpose and honor.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 51 years, Dorothy French Keene.
He is survived by six children, Theresa (Ed) Campbell, Jean Keene, Ann (Michael) Smith, Bernie Keene Jr., Howard (Dee Dee Ford) Keene and Twyman (Jesse) Keene; four grandchildren, Kara Campbell McPeak (Evan), Ned Campbell (Ashley), Drew Smith, and Audrey Smith; and one great-grandchild, Jensen Campbell.
A special thanks to the staff of The Nazareth Home, Clifton and Windsor Gardens, Bardstown, and all of the caregivers.
The Mass of Christian Burial is 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2019, at the Basilica of St. Joseph Proto-Cathedral with the Rev. Minh Vu officiating. Burial is in the church cemetery with full military honors.
Visitation is 4-8 p.m. Monday, Dec. 2, 2019, and 8:30-10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2019, with a prayers at 7 p.m. Monday evening at the Houghlin-Greenwell Funeral Home.
Expressions of sympathy are requested to go to Habitat for Humanity or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
The Houghlin-Greenwell Funeral Home in Bardstown is in charge of arrangements.
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