Howard Douglas 'Doug' Keys

Howard Douglas 'Doug' Keys, 68, Muskogee resident, was born on November 26, 1957, in Muskogee, Oklahoma to Levi and Marianne (Ford) Keys, and peacefully passed away on Thursday, June 11, 2026, in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. Howard was affectionate called ‘Doug’ by all who knew him. Doug was born and raised in Muskogee, Oklahoma, a place he was proud to call home throughout his life. He was especially proud of his heritage as a ᏣᎳᎩᎯ ᎠᏰᎵ (Cherokee Nation Citizen) and held a deep appreciation for his Native American roots. Doug dedicated more than 35 years of his life to his work as a master HVAC-R technician. He was a devoted fisherman, a lover of the outdoors, and a man of quiet strength. He worked hard, lived simply, and found his greatest peace in the beauty of nature. Though distance often separated him from his family, they were never far from his heart. He eagerly looked forward to every phone call, update, and photograph, cherishing each opportunity to watch his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow. He celebrated their accomplishments with pride and found joy in the lives they built. Doug asked for little, appreciated life’s simple blessings, and loved deeply in his own quiet way. His steadfast love, humble nature, and the memories he leaves behind will be treasured always by those who were fortunate to know and love him. Psalm 23:2–3: “He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul,” and Psalm 107:29–30: “He calms the storm, so that its waves are still. Then they are glad because they are quiet, so He guides them to their desired haven.” He is lovingly survived by his children, Tangee Keys - Marcy and husband Richard of Kittery, ME and Alicia Keys of Dallas, TX; his grandchildren, Kayla Keys - Brown and husband Jacob Brown of Montgomery, TX, Brian Holbrook, Jr. of Colorado Springs, CO, Lucas Jefferson Marcy of Kittery, ME, Joyous Day Hanna of Dallas, TX, and Dylan Montgomery Hanna of Dallas, TX; his great-grandchildren, Emma Lynn Brown, Ethan Eugene Brown, Elisabeth Katherine Brown and Everly Raye Brown, all of Montgomery, TX; his sister, Kathy Hopkins and husband Robin Hopkins of Muskogee, OK; nephew, Casey Hopkins of Muskogee, OK; and step-brothers, Cecil Robbins, Clifford Robbins, and Brett Robbins, all of Muskogee, OK; extended family and many friends. Doug is now reunited with his father, Levi Keys; his mother and stepfather, Marianne and Jefferson Robbins; his stepsons, Edward and Christopher Dunn; and his beloved dog, Buster. Doug’s family are honoring his wishes to be cremated with no formal services scheduled at this time. The family of Howard Douglas ‘Doug’ Keys has entrusted his care and cremation to Clifford D Garrett Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Fort Gibson. 918-478-2555. Online condolences may be left for the family at clifforddgarrettfamilyfh.com.

Howard Douglas 'Doug' Keys

November 26, 1957 - June 11, 2026