In Loving Memory of Larry Keen
On August 12, 2025, Larry Keen passed away peacefully after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease. He was surrounded by love and leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and humor that touched the lives of many.
Larry is survived by his beloved wife, Sharon Dudley Keen, and his devoted sons: Daniel (Shannon) Keen, David (Kary) Keen, and Lee (Dana) Keen. He was a proud grandfather to Garett, Grace, Madison, Lily, Carson, Macy Lee, Sophie, and Ainsley, who brought him immense joy. He is also survived by his sister, Deborah K. Marsch. Larry was predeceased by his parents, Milton C. and Elizabeth P. Keen, his grandson, Hunter Daniel Keen, and his sister, Diane Hutchison.
A native of Middletown, Delaware, Larry graduated from Middletown High School, where he served as president of his senior class. He continued his academic journey at Goldey Beacom College, East Carolina University, and the University of Delaware, earning multiple degrees and completing 30 hours beyond his Master’s in Education.
Larry dedicated 35 years of his life to education, beginning with four years at Goldey Beacom College—where he met the love of his life and wife of 59 years, Sharon. He then spent the remainder of his career at Delaware Technical Community College, serving in various roles including Instructor, Department Chair, Assistant Dean of Instruction, and Vice President of Finance. His students and colleagues admired him for his wit, warmth, and unwavering commitment to learning.
Outside of work, Larry cherished time spent at the family’s summer home in Fenwick, Delaware. He was known for his gentle spirit, quick humor, and the way he lit up the dinner table with jokes for his grandchildren. He loved watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy, and cheering on his beloved Philadelphia Eagles. Larry also adored his little furry buddies, Petee and Hobs, who were constant companions and brought him great comfort and joy.
Larry will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy of love, laughter, and learning will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and former students.
A visitation to celebrate Larry’s life will be held on Tuesday, August 26 from 3:00PM-4:30PM at R.T. Foard & Jones, Inc., 122 West Main Street, Newark, DE 19711. A service will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made payable to a Parkinson’s Disease charity or foundation, and sent in care of R.T. Foard & Jones, Inc., 122 West Main Street, Newark, DE 19711. To send online condolences, please visit www.rtfoard.com.