Ettie Jane Gleason Keogh, 87, passed away at her home, surrounded by her family, on August 27, 2016.

Born to Lena and Homer Gleason on May 7, 1929, Ettie Jane was raised in the home built by her father on a block that was classically "Gleason." She spent her childhood running around the Gleason's General Store and the First Presbyterian Church of Lake Mary, both of which her father had a hand in constructing. She later married Richard Keogh (who proceeded her in passing) and they built their home in the backyard of the church. "The block" as it was commonly referred to, was the place of her life.

Over the course of her 40 year career, she had the honor of teaching hundreds of students at Lake Mary Elementary, Southside Elementary, Pine Crest Elementary, Hopper Elementary, and Lyman High School. After her husband's retirement, they followed in her parent's footsteps and opened a store of their own, The Left-Handed Irishman. Being that she was left-handed and Richard, Irish, the store became a natural blend of the two.

Later in life, her passion for preserving the history of her community led her to many opportunities, including being a founding member of the Lake Mary Historical Commission and serving on the Board of the Seminole County Historical Society. She also sat on the governing boards of the Lake Mary Presbyterian Church.

Throughout her final days, she was surrounded by the love of her family. Stories were shared, love cascaded over her in a blanket of warmth until her final breath. Blessed are those who had the great pleasure of knowing and loving her!

She is survived by three of her four sons, Craig Keogh (Susan) of Orlando, Keith Keogh (Vicki) of Windermere, and Colin Keogh (Susan) of Casselberry. Her fourth son, Kyle Keogh, passed last August. She is also survived by 7 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and many extended family members and friends.

Ettie Jane's celebration of life will be held at the First Presbyterian Church of Lake Mary on Saturday, September 3, 2016 at 11 a.m. Immediately following, a graveside service will be held at the Historic Lake Mary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Lake Mary Elementary School and will be utilized to purchase books for the students. Donations can be sent to Lake Mary Elementary School, Ettie Jane Keogh Memorial Fund, 132 S. Country Club Rd., Lake Mary, FL 32746.