Keith Charles Beatty Sr., 73, of York Pennsylvania, went to his heavenly home on March 25, 2023, after living a life filled with love and serving Jesus Christ. He was the loving husband of Sylvia M. Beatty, with whom he shared 36 years of marriage. Born in York, Pennsylvania, on September 26, 1949, he was the son of the late Harold Ruben Beatty and Beverly Jean Brodis.
Keith was a loving husband, excellent father, energetic grandfather, present uncle, cousin, and friend to many. He was a Pastor, Entrepreneur, Track Coach, and Founder/CEO of Mission Home for Christ and Mission Home Ministries.
Growing up, Keith attended William Penn High School in York, PA, he later joined the Airforce and became a First-Class Airman receiving Honorable Discharge in 1972. In his early career he worked at William Penn High School. Keith poured into ministry and the youth, opening Mission Home for Christ and later Mission Home Ministries, impacting the lives of hundreds, if not thousands of people. You could not meet him and remain the same. Keith was recognized for several awards, including Great American Family Community Award presented by First Lady Nancy Reagan at the White House, Citation by The House of Representatives, Tribute from the Senate of Pennsylvania, Role Model for Young People Award in 1991 and 1997, York County Community- Based Program of the Year Award, Service to Man Kind Award, and the Spirit of York Award. Keith went on to receive his certifications in Marriage and Family Therapy, a Doctorate in Humanities, and a Foster Care License.
In 2004, he moved to Phoenix Arizona and served as the Apostle at Heart of Promises Ministries. He was the driving force that expanded the ministry to what it is today. Whether he was on the east or west coast, Keith always had a passion for giving back to his community with a special focus on helping youth. He had a way of inspiring people causing them to believe in themselves and to see the vision that God had for their life. He was known to encourage, motivate, invest, connect, and ultimately spread the Good News and Love of Jesus Christ with all whom he encountered.
Keith will be remembered as a believer of Jesus Christ, family-man, jokester, and giver. He lived a vibrant life and enjoyed vacationing, fishing, camping, pool exercises, going out to eat, socializing (Keith never met a stranger), playing basketball and adding people to his famous zip club, because every moment was an opportunity to compete for Keith. Everyone could squeeze in the hotel or car and come on trips. You knew that you were always welcomed and wanted with him. If you ever tasted his rice pudding, then you know that a gathering was not complete without his delicious dish! Keith lit up every room that he entered, and his presence and energy was immediately felt and positively received.
Keith is survived by his wife of 36 years, Sylvia Beatty and from this union 4 children, Angel Beatty, William Beatty [wife Rebecca], Charles Beatty, and Sylvia (Beatty) Banks [husband Joseph]; 4 children from his first marriage, Rebecca (Beatty) Hunter [husband Brian], Keith “Dewey” Beatty Jr., Katherine “Cissy” (Beatty) Westry [husband Andy], Spencer Beatty [wife Erisha]. He recognizes Kyle Hawkins and Eric Lauer as his sons. He also recognizes Elizabeth Scott as his daughter; 64 Grandchildren, 52 Great-grandchildren; 14 siblings, Harold Beatty, Karen (Beatty) Smallwood, Susan (Beatty) Palmer, Beverly (Beatty) Wilson, Cathy (Beatty) Banks, Robin (Beatty) Smith, Barton Beatty Sr., Lorrie “Oak” Beatty, Isabelle (Beatty) Smith, Holly Beatty, Conrad Beatty, Chrissy Allen, Curtis Hanna, and Darryl Hanna. He recognizes Samuel Wedon as his brother. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his Grandmother, Regina E. Barnes; Father, Harold R. Beatty; Mother, Beverly Jean Brodis.