James Keillor Obituary

Dr. James S. Keillor, age 85 of Royal Oak, passed away peacefully Monday, August 4, 2025 at his home. He was born Sunday, October 22, 1939 in Detroit to the late Martha "Marion" and Vaughan Keillor.

Dr. Keillor attended Redford High School and the University of Michigan, where he was a member of Phi Beta Kappa Fraternity. He continued his studies with Wayne State University, where he obtained his doctorate in psychology. He served as a Psychologist in Royal Oak for 57 years. He also served as a professor at the University of Windsor and as the president of Michigan Psychoanalyst Society. Dr. Keillor was a strong gay rights activist and a proud supporter of the LGBTQ community. He tirelessly devoted his time and energy to fight the stigma of AIDS and was a founding member and group leader of WINGS, an organization that provided group counseling and recreational opportunities for those affected by the AIDS crisis. Most of all, he was a loving husband, father, grandfather, son, brother and friend.

He is survived by his spouse, Joseph M. Plesuchenko; children, Matthew J. (Lisa) Keillor, Kathryn E. (John) Hoyt, Joshua F. (Christine) Keillor, and stepson, Brandon Plesuchenko; grandchildren, Clayton, Ainsley, Oliver, Greta Hoyt and Ari Keillor; and many dear friends. He is preceded in death by his sister, Martha D. Keillor (2023) and his wife Sharon Keillor (2020).

A memorial visitation will be Thursday, August 21, 2025 from 3:00 PM until 8:00 PM with a prayer and memory service at 6:00 PM at Sawyer-Fuller Funeral Home, 2125 W. 12 Mile Rd. Berkley. A funeral Mass will be Friday, August 22, 2025 at Christ the Good Shepard Old Catholic Church, 3947 W. 12 Mile Rd., Berkley, MI 48072 at 10:00 AM with visiting beginning at 9:30 AM prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested memorials to Michigan Humane Society, 2937 East Grand Blvd., Suite 800, Detroit, MI 48202.