On January 4, 2018, Brett Tyler Keeling, Drury University sophomore, passed away in an automobile incident. Keeling, age 19, was a commuter student from Clever, Mo. Keeling was studying chemistry and biology and was well-liked by faculty and staff at Trustee Science Center.

Keeling had many friends from high school and a very tight-knit family. He was known as “Bubba” by many in his hometown.

Many people remember Keeling’s big smile more than anything. “He loved to make people laugh. His gorgeous smile would light up a room,” says his mother, Amy Keeling, in the obituary that she wrote for her son.

Keeling was a loving and generous big brother to his sister, Ashtin, and his brother, Nolan. At Drury, Keeling leaves behind many good friends who know his bright smile. He will be missed by students and faculty alike.

The visitation and funeral service for Keeling were held January 8 and January 9, respectively, at Meadors Funeral Home in Clever, Mo. He was buried in Dice Cemetery in Fairview, Mo., next to his grandparents. Condolences for the family can be sent online at www.meadorsfuneralhome.com.

There is also a GoFundMe page that can be found at www.gofundme.com/brett-keeling-fundraiser. The donations made to this GoFundMe will go towards funeral expenses, as well as the Brett Keeling Memorial Scholarship Fund at Mid-Missouri Bank in Republic, Mo.

Dean of Students Dr. Tijuana Julian released a statement on January 17 about Keeling’s passing to the student body. The email stated, “we continue to keep Brett’s family and friends in our thoughts and prayers during this tragedy and difficult time.”

For those struggling with the loss of a fellow student, Drury University offers counseling services. You can contact Ed Derr or Jena Steele at 417-873-7418 or visit FSC 114. You can also make an appointment online, or take advantage of the walk-in hours on Tuesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The services provided by Counseling Services are free, voluntary and confidential.

Article written by Mady McColm