Margaret D. Keaton, 79, of New Haven, entered into eternal rest August 6, 2013, at Yale New Haven Hospital after a lengthy illness.
She was born on June 17, 1934 in Algoma, WV. to the late William Davis and Alice (Payne) Davis. After graduating from Elkhorn High School in 1951, she attended Bluefield State College majoring in pre-nursing. Margaret relocated to New Haven in 1959 where she worked in a clerical position at the Dixwell Ave. Congregational United Church of Christ. In 1960, Margaret married the late Nathaniel H. Keaton Sr. and remained a loving and devoted wife for 52 years until his passing in 2012. In 1961, she began her career as an EKG Technician at the West Haven VA Hospital for 30 years until her retirement in 1991. After retirement, she worked part time at James Hillhouse High School as a secretary for several years.
In the fall of 1978 the “Hillhouse Booster Club” was born in the home of Margaret and Nate. The Keatons along with a dozen other parents formulated the club to support the football team of James Hillhouse High School. From the Booster Club came the “The Hillhouse — Cross Alumni Breakfast”. From the Breakfast came the “Elm City Bowl” which remains the highlight of the New Haven football season.
Margaret has served on several New Haven schools sports committees and has been an avid supporter of New Haven athletics.
Her hobbies included cooking, collecting antiques, traveling and watching various sporting events on TV including most of the PGA tournaments. At church, she served on the willing workers committee and the flower club.
She leaves to cherish her memory, her sons, Nathaniel Jr. and William L. Keaton both of New Haven; sister, Barbara J. Davis of New Haven; grandson, Nathaniel H. Keaton III of New Haven and daughter in law Mary E. Keaton of Plainville Ct. and a host of relatives and friends. She was predeceased by her husband, Nathaniel Sr., brothers, Charles Davis and William L. Davis.
A Celebration of her life will take place on Friday, August 16, 2013 at 11am at Dixwell Avenue Congregational United Church of Christ, 217 Dixwell Ave. New Haven, CT 06511, with calling hours Friday from 9 – 11am at the church. Interment will be held at Beaverdale Memorial Park. To leave a message of comfort for the Keaton family please visit www.hkhfuneralservices.com
