Stephen Robert Keyes' Obituary
Stephen Robert Keyes, 69, of Hudson, Florida, passed away on February 28, 2026, following a brief illness. Born on September 15, 1956, in Lansing, Michigan, Steve was the beloved son of Jack and Bunny Keyes.
Steve graduated from Everett High School in 1974 and went on to continue his education at Lansing Community College, General Motors Institute, Concord Medical Institute, Ruth Eckerd Hall, and the Police Academy in Florida. His areas of study reflected his wide range of talents and passions, including Criminal Justice, Medical Assisting, and Theater Production and Acting.
Steve built a diverse and meaningful career throughout his life. He served as a Medical Assistant and Clinical Manager for Trinity Medical Associates under Dr. Jeffrey Vasta, making a difference in many lives through his work in the Weight Loss Clinic. Prior to his medical career, he served the Punta Gorda Police Department as a Detective in Major Crimes—one of his proudest accomplishments. He also spent many years acting and directing in film, television, commercials, and live theatre, where his dedication and talent earned him the LARY Award for Acting Excellence in Community Theatre.
Beyond his professional achievements, Steve enjoyed acting, directing, community theatre, boating, and golf. His creativity, kindness, and sense of humor touched all who knew him.
On July 5, 2008, he married the love of his life, Kelley Keyes, with whom he shared 18 wonderful years.
Steve is survived by his wife, Kelley; his children, Carson (Chrissy) Keyes and Cassie Keyes‑Germiller (Leo); and his stepchildren, Emily and Dave Mallard. He was a devoted grandfather to Alana Clair, Breana Clair, Maverick Germiller, Lyla Keyes, and Jack Keyes.
He is also survived by his sisters: Sandra Keyes VanStratt (Matthew), Susan Keyes, and Julia Keyes Vasta (Dr. Jeffrey Vasta); and his nieces and nephews: Jacob VanStratt, Kristin Parmenter VanStratt, Taylor Vasta, Alex Vasta, Katie (Vasta) Kozma, Anna (Vasta) Burwell, and Amelie and Tristan Khiar.
Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Bunny (Archer) Keyes.
A Funeral Mass will be held on March 26, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Ignatius of Antioch Roman Catholic Church, 715 Orange St., Tarpon Springs, Florida. Burial will follow at Trinity Memorial Gardens, House of Eternity, 12609 Memorial Dr., Trinity, Florida.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to SAGES Plays with Purpose, an organization close to Steve’s heart. Contributions may be made at https://sagestheater.org by selecting “Join Us,” then “Donate Now,” and choosing “Memorial Gift” from the drop‑down menu.
Steve will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and all who were touched by his compassion, talent, and dedication.
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