RICHARD DALE KEYES, SR.

Richard Dale Keyes, Sr. made his transition on Sunday, September 27, 2020, at Clovis Community Hospital at the age of 85.

Richard was born in Columbus, Ohio to Roy and Erma Keyes. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Roy, Marcelyn, and Karen.

As a youth, Richard was inquisitive and found intrigue in any challenge. His mother inspired him to develop ethical values, and strong involvement by serving the community. He graduated from East High in Columbus, Ohio and after high school he served in the armed forces (Army) for three years. During one of his leaves from the military, Richard met and married Corena Fullenwilder and to this union 5 children were born. After being discharged from the military, Richard started his college education at Ohio State University. While working multiple jobs to support his family, he also earned his Bachelor’s degree in International Studies and a Masters in Social Work. 

In 1968 he left Columbus and began his work during the civil rights movement as a community organizer in southern California.  In that same year of 1968,  Richard was recruited by the Fresno State Black Student Union to establish the ethnic studies program at Fresno State. He became the first Black Studies Chair, implemented the first Equal Opportunity Program (EOP) that was vital for minority recruitment in response to student protests at the University.  Later he met and married Audrey Johnson (deceased July of 1985) building a blended family.

Richard was a very intellectual and humble man, with extensive experience in economic and organizational development. He was contracted by UC Santa Cruz to travel extensively, both nationally and internationally, developing community-based health programs with an emphasis on global indigenous populations.  After spending seven years at UC Santa Cruz he joined Richard Heath and Associates (RHA Inc.) managing low income weatherization programs. Before his retirement from RHA he held the position of Executive Vice President. During his time with RHA, he met and married his soul mate, Mary Ann Amey.

Retiring in 2002, he enjoyed his family and friends, and was active on various community boards (i.e., Fresno E.O.C., UNCF, Southwest Fresno Development Corporation, Fresno Metro Black Chamber and Workforce Investment Board). He will be fondly remembered for his charismatic leadership and masterful conflict resolution skills.

Richard is survived by his wife, Mary Ann, his son Richard D. Keyes, Jr. (Virginia), his daughters Kimberly Smith (Craig), Kathryn Johnson (Eric), Leane Lima, Deanna Holley (Antoine), additional sons Gregory Johnson (Diana), Ted Johnson, 18 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and a host of family and friends.

The current COVID epidemic has curtailed public memorial services. Therefore, a virtual service will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2020 at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a donation be made to Live Again Fresno, c/o Richard Keyes, Sr. Memorial. Mailing address: 161 N. Van Ness, Fresno, CA 93701.

Online donation: https://www.aplos.com/aws/give/LiveAgainFresno/general