Ulyse Keene Obituary

Ulyse J. Keene, known to his family and friends as Jack, passed away on February 11, 2026 in Richlands, VA at the age of 91.

Born on June 12, 1934, in Jolo, WV, Jack grew up with a vigorous work ethic. He left his home and friends at the age of seventeen to work for General Motors in Ohio. He later served in the Korean Conflict and was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army. He spent the majority of his working years mining coal. Jack was a long-time member of the United Mine Workers of America #2232 and served as both their secretary and president.

Jack was known for his signature cowboy boots that rarely left his feet, and he walked with a steady, unmistakable stride. A true car enthusiast, Jack could often be found shining his vehicles or simply admiring their engines. When not in the garage, Jack was outside turning his yard into a manicured green or tending to his bountiful vegetable garden. Beyond his hobbies, Jack was a fierce and lifelong Democrat. He was never shy about his political stance and was quick to stand up for what he believed in.

Jack is preceded in death by his parents, many siblings; and his daughter in law, Pam Keene.

He is survived by his loving spouse of 67 years, Flora Ratliff Keene; their children, Dennis Keene, Greg (Stephanie) Keene; his grandchildren, Maygan Keene (Bradley) Nuckles and Maggie Keene (Hunter) Foster; and great-grandchildren Graham and Brady Nuckles. Jack is also survived by one brother, Leonard Keene.

A celebration of life will be held on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 1:00 pm at Hurst Scott Funeral Home in Richlands, VA with Rev. Hobert Kennedy officiating. Interment will follow at Greenhills Memory Gardens, Claypool Hill, VA. Pallbearers will be: Terry Wimmer, Bill Meade, Paul Cole, Mack Ratliff, James Watts, and Anthony Childress. Visitation will be from 12-1 pm on Monday afternoon at the funeral home. UMWA Chaplin Corps Sub 21 will conduct services. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Blackberry Winter. https://www.blackberrywinter.org/

Hurst-Scott Funeral Home in Richlands oversees arrangements, and those wishing to express sympathy online may do so at www.hurstscottfuneralhomes.com