Deborah Kay Keener

Deborah Kay Keener, 73, went home to Jesus on June 28, 2026, in Tooele, Utah. Born on May 17, 1953, in Provo, Utah, she was the beloved daughter of Wilford Keener and Deloris O'Brien.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Wilford (Bill) Keener and Deloris (Dee) O’Brien, as well as siblings Crystal Salaz and Daniel (Dan) Keener, and sons Kenneth (Kenny) and Jerald (Jerry) Watts, and grandson Cody Herbert.

Deborah’s memory will forever be cherished by those she leaves behind. She is survived by her siblings, Wilford (Bill) Keener, Dennis O’Brien, Drake Bevans, Cindy Bown and John (Johnny) Keener; her sons, James and Ryan Watts; her grandchildren, Tyler, Kiera, Yakuna, Rykken, Kyanite, Trevor, Haley, Jerry, Skyler, Casey, Karlee, Jaden, Tayson, and Raelynn; and her great-grandchildren, Lucas, Evelynn, Lyra, Sariah, Harley, and soon-to-arrive, Colt. She also leaves behind a vast circle of loved aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, step-family, foster and adopted family, and in-laws—along with countless dear friends for whom she was, and always will be, considered family.

Deborah lived a life defined by extraordinary resilience and steadfast strength. While she faced profound challenges and life’s most difficult storms, Debbie navigated every hurdle with an iron will and unwavering grace. She possessed an uncanny ability to always make things work, sacrificing her own comfort to prioritize her children, family and friends. By enduring hardships with such perseverance, she taught us what it means to remain unbroken, leaving behind a legacy of selfless love and faith in Jesus that serves as an anchor for all who knew her.

A Celebration of Life service and interment will be held in her honor on July 12, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Larkin Sunset Gardens in Sandy, followed by a family and friends Potluck Celebration. Watch here for potluck details or contact family closer to the day. The service will be livestreamed via Zoom and can be accessed by clicking the "Watch Services" button above.