James F. Keesling

Chief James F. Keesling, 80, (former Chief of Kingsport Police Department) passed away at Wellmont Holston Valley Medical Center, Kingsport, after a brief illness and began his eternal life on January 25, 2014. Chief Keesling was born on February 22, 1933 in Smyth County, Virginia. He was a graduate of East Tennessee State University where he received the National Alumni Association Award of Honor and Walter State Community College as a member in the Hall of Fame. He was also a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy Associates and served as President of the Executive Board. He was an Assistant Director of the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and served as a member of the Peace Officers Standard and Training Commission. He served as Kingsport Police Chief and was Chairman of the Kingsport Emergency Communication District Board of Directors. After retiring he worked as an investigator for Hawkins, Bingham and Miller Law firm. Chief Keesling was preceded in death by his parents, Harry Green and Mollie Clydas Hamm Keesling; two brothers, Joseph W. Keesling, Harry Randolf Keesling and a sister, Anna K. Claud. He leaves to cherish his memory and celebrate his life, his loving wife of 45 years, Bernice K. Keesling of the home; three sisters, Flora Jean Almany of Plantation, FL, Barbara K Goodpasture & husband Jerry of Randleman, NC, Martha K. Vottero & husband Dominic of Kingston, TN; two brothers, John E. Keesling & wife Janice of Chesterfield, VA and David L. Keesling & wife Cathy of Urbana, VA; along with several nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends from 4 - 7 pm on Tuesday, January 28, 2014 at Mafair United Methodist Church, 1409 East Center Street, Kingsport. Funeral services will follow at 7 pm in the church with Rev. Kim Goddard, officiating. A eulogy will be given by Retired Chief Mark Addington. Pallbearers will be his nephews and family. Honorary Pallbearers will be members of Loyalty Sunday School Class. Kingsport Police Department members will serve as Honor Guard. Entombment services will be held at 11 am on Wednesday, January 29, 2014 at Forest Hills Memory Gardens, Abingdon, VA with the Kingsport Police Department Honor Guard in charge. Those attending are asked to meet at the cemetery at 10:55 am In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Mafair UMC, 1409 East Center Street, Kingsport, 37660. Carter-Trent Funeral Home, downtown Kingsport is serving the family of Chief James F. Keesling.