Randall Paul Keister

Randall Paul Keister, 77, of Weirton, WV, passed away on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at WVU Medicine – Weirton Medical Center, surrounded by the love of his family.

Randall was born on March 24, 1949, in Parkersburg, WV, the eldest of three sons born to Paul Williard and Rosalee Pearl Snider Keister.
A graduate of Weir High School, Class of 1967, Randall was a man of intelligence, quick wit, and a mischievous sense of humor. He could be ornery, a little impatient, and always ready with a clever remark, but beneath that he will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and a man who would do anything for his brothers. Perhaps, the most meaningful description of Randall came from his children, who simply called him “Our Hero.”

One of the greatest stories of Randall’s life began in the hallways of Weir High School, where a shy young man kept finding reasons to linger near the locker of a girl named Joyce Chipps. Finally, during the last week of January 1966, Joyce took matters into her own hands and told him, “Pick me up, and let’s go to the basketball game.” That first date began a love story that would span more than six decades.

Joyce was attracted to Randall’s good looks, quiet shyness, and intelligence. Their relationship blossomed, but there was one condition before they could marry: Joyce’s parents insisted that she finish college first. Determined not to let anything stand in the way of their future together, Joyce attended summer school and completed her degree in education in December 1970.

Meanwhile, Randall had left West Liberty State College after his freshman year to answer his country’s call to service. He proudly served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam era, including overseas duty from 1969 to 1972. Known to his fellow sailors by the nickname “Weazel,” Randall carried with him the experiences, friendships, and pride of having served his nation.

On May 1, 1971, while Randall was home on leave from the Navy, he and Joyce were married, beginning a lifetime of love, laughter, and shared adventures. Together, they were blessed with two children, Richard and Kristen, and later two grandchildren, Braden and Kailee, who brought even more joy into their lives.

Following his military service, Randall returned to Weirton and started his career at Weirton Steel, where he was an electrician until his retirement in 1998, with 34 years of service. Joyce about had a heart attack when Randall said he is retiring as Kristen was a student- athlete at Bethany College.

Randall was blessed with a remarkable ability to work with his hands. A natural handyman, there seemed to be nothing he couldn’t repair, build, or figure out. His sharp mind, practical knowledge, and determination made him the person family members and neighbors could always count on when something needed fixing.

An avid outdoorsman, Randall found great happiness at his family’s farm in Doddridge County, WV, where he enjoyed hunting deer, squirrels, and turkey. But for Randall, hunting was about much more than the pursuit of game. It was about family, tradition, and time spent together. He began taking his son, Rich, hunting when Rich was just three years old, establishing a cherished family tradition that continues today.

Thanksgiving held a special place in the Keister family. While the men headed off to the hunting camp, the women enjoyed their own Thanksgiving celebration back home. It was a tradition filled with stories, laughter, and memories that became part of the fabric of their family.
Randall was equally devoted to supporting his children’s interests. He especially enjoyed attending Kristen’s sporting events and took tremendous pride in watching her become a state softball champion during her sophomore year of high school. Those moments in the stands, cheering on his daughter, were among his happiest.

The Keister family also shared many adventures together, including one particularly memorable cross-country trip in a motorhome when Rich and Kristen were just five and two years old. Traveling across the United States with two small children was undoubtedly an adventure, but it became one of those treasured family experiences that would be remembered and talked about for years to come.

Randall nourished his faith at Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church in Weirton. He was also a member of the A.F. & A.M. Weirton Masonic Lodge, the Weirton Area Radio Watch, and American Legion Post 10.

In addition to his parents, Randall was preceded in death by his mother and father in law, Bernard and Norma Chipps; and his sister-in-law, Cathy Keister.

He will be remembered with love by his wife, Joyce Chipps Keister; his son, Rich Keister; his daughter, Kristen Keister; his grandchildren, Braden and Kailee Keister; and his brothers, Melvin (Dottie) Keister and Larry Keister.

Private services will be held at the Greco-Hertnick Funeral Home, 3219 Main Street, Weirton, WV, with the Reverend Bill Stout officiating.

Military honors will be rendered by the United States Navy and the American Legion Post 10 Honor Guard in recognition of Randall’s honorable service to his country.

Memorial contributions may be made in Randall’s memory to the Hancock County Animal Shelter.

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