Celia Mae Kee

Published 9:43 am Tuesday, October 29, 2024

Celia Mae Kee, affectionately known as “Aunt Celia Mae”, 87 of Suffolk, Virginia entered eternal rest on Thursday, October 17, 2024.  She was born on June 27, 1937, in Suffolk, Virginia to the late John and Annie Mae Ford.

Celia was preceded in death by her husband Arthur Kee, Sr., sister, Margie Ford Thomas, Daughter-in-law, Donna Kee, and granddaughter, Pearline Fulgham.

Celia Kee graduated from Booker T. Washington in Suffolk, Virginia. She attended Norfolk State University and Madame Mitchell Beauty School in Portsmouth, Virginia where she received her cosmetology license. After graduation, Celia moved to Boston Massachusetts to work, but shortly after returned home and began her career with the Department of Defense.  Celia worked at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard and the Norfolk Naval Supply Center for over 30 years as a supervisor before retiring.  After retirement, she became known as the lady who drives the brown van and always helping people.  She frequented churches, Salvation Army and the food bank picking up donations and giving it out in various neighborhoods.  She would also take people without transportation to run errands.  She was always willing to lend a helping hand.

Celia Kee was a long-time member of Macedonia A.M.E. church since childhood.  She served as Sunday school teacher, choir director, and as a member of the Willing Workers Club.

Celia Kee leaves to cherish a son, Arthur Kee, Jr., a daughter, Camelia Kee, a sister, Catherine Ford-Williams, five grandchildren, Justin Kee, Carlton Ferguson, Carlene Ferguson, Donneash Ferguson, Larry Fulgham, six great-grandchildren, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, and a host of nieces and nephews. A special nephew that she practically raised as a son, Alonza Harris.

Throughout her journey, Celia’s favorite scripture was John 14:1-4, Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe also in God, believe also in me. In my father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. She is resting well in one of the mansions prepared for her, that God promised.

Homegoing Services will be held at New Mount Joy Food for Living Ministry, 307 County Street Suffolk October 25, 2024, at 1 p.m.

 Viewing will be at Crocker Funeral Home October 24, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. at 900 East Washington Street Suffolk.