Obituary of Elois McKeever

Elois McKeever was born Elois Longacre in Lehighton PA on June 5,1924. Though she grew up during the depression her father was a veterinarian giving her family a significant place in the community. She was the youngest of 3 children. Her older sister Delta and brother Lamont held her in great affection but considered her to be very mischievous. At age 4 she would often follow them to school and would have to be returned home by the principal, as she was not yet old enough to attend. When she did finally make it to school she was known for her vivacious personality, and also was very successful performing in the school theater. She had significant comedic timing which gave her the opportunity to play memorable roles.

She was nick named by her peers "Tiger Lil". After high school she continued her education at Temple and became a licensed dental hygienist. She did not practice in her field long. After graduation she met the love of her life Capt.Robert McKeever, they were married in 1945. In 1952 she travelled aboard the vessel, "Keytrader", around the world. Elois saw many exotic places including Saudi Arabia, Japan and multiple countries in Europe and Latin America on the year long voyage. She was the only woman aboard with her husband, the Captain. When Elois was not traveling the world with Bob, she was home taking care of her three children Kathie, Kristin and Kevin. She was known in her circle for being a brilliant entertainer and cooked amazing meals including Schnitz und Knepp, Standing Rib roasts and the best Crab Imperial you could ever experience. Elois had a unique design aesthetic and her homes were always beautifully decorated especially for holidays. Being a very festive person, she often invited friends and shipmates with their families to events in her homes, Wyndmoor, Avalon or Blue Bell, to enjoy a wonderful meal in the amazing environment. Her personal style was impeccable. There was not a day that she was not brightly color coordinated from head to toe including the appropriate amount of rhinestone and sequin accessories. Grandchildren would be known to sit on her lap as babies mesmerized by her jewel bedecked wrists and fingers.

She was a gracious, loving and giving person who loved good food and company.Elois is known far and wide as the Grande Dame of Generosity and Humor. She was the best girlfriend to many. She was a devoted wife, a mother, a grandmother and a great grandmother, we will miss her so much .Heaven is now more fun.

Her three children are Kathie Rosse, Kristin McKeever (deceased),and Kevin McKeever. Her grandchildren are Abigail French, Rob Graham, Lauren Rosse, Jean Paul Rosse, Melissa Evans, Kevin McKeever, Amanda McKeever, Peter McKeever and and her Great Grandchildren, Lily MacMahon,and Max Graham, Eva McKeever and Molly MacMahon.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Amer. Macular Degeneration Foundation (www.macular.org).