Edward Francis Keane, 72, of Daytona Beach, Florida, formerly of Franklin, died Wednesday, September 13, 2017, at Halifax Hospital in Daytona Beach, after a long illness.
He was the beloved oldest son of 11 children, born to the late Robert Keane and Anna (Condon) Keane.
Ed will be forever missed by his 8 brothers and sisters: Robert Keane of Deland, FL., Patricia Hooley of Effort, PA, Paula McKenna and Anthony Keane both of Bellingham, Dorothy Belmore of Milford, Lawrence Keane, of Arlington, Amy Solbo of New Bedford, Brendan Keane of Millis, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sisters Eileen Doran and Connie Lanzarotto.
Ed was born August 10, 1945 at Mount Auburn Hospital in Cambridge. He grew up in Bellingham and was a graduate of Marion High School and Stonehill College, where he received his B.A. in economics. Upon graduation, he joined the Army and served in Korea and was honorably discharged in 1970. After serving his country, he became a social worker for the State of MA for many years, until he retired due to illness.
He enjoyed volunteering at the Franklin Senior Center, listening to music, was an avid Bruce Springsteen fan, and loved all Boston sports teams, especially the Bruins.
Ed was a devout Catholic who served as an altar boy and lector at his home church of St. Brendan’s in Bellingham. He was compassionate, caring, loving and truly lived his faith. Though given numerous crosses to bear, he sought comfort not through the sympathies of others, but through his faith in God.
His love for others will be his legacy. He was known for his personal hand written notes, giving his last dime to others that he deemed more in need than himself, and praying for all - especially family members. When visiting him at the nursing home it was very easy to spot him because he wore his "I love Jesus" cap proudly.
The family would like to thank his countless friends who lovingly remained faithful and supportive to our beloved brother. Special thanks to Emory L. Bennett Veterans Nursing Home for lovingly and compassionately caring for our brother for 3 years.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend visiting hours on Tuesday, September 26 from 10:00 - 11:00 AM in the parish hall at St. Brendan’s Church, 384 Hartford Ave., Bellingham, followed by a funeral Mass at 11:00 in the church. Following the mass, Ed will be laid to rest at St. Joseph's cemetery in Medway.
In lieu of flowers, Ed’s family requests that donations be made in his name to the Emory L. Bennett Veterans Nursing Home (Attn. Activities Dept.) 1920 Mason Ave., Daytona Beach, FL 32117.