FAYETTEVILLE — Andrew Todd Keeling, 39,

passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Fayetteville, Ark., on Dec. 15, 2020, due to undiagnosed conge s t ive heart failure. This loss was a shock to all that knew him. Andy was born Nov. 25, 1981, in Joplin, Mo., to Bill and Marty (McCoy) Keeling while the family was in the process of moving to Rogers, Ark., where Andy grew up.

He attended Rogers Public Schools from elementary through high school, graduating in 2000. He participated in youth baseball, basketball, and football leagues. He played percussion in the school band. He completed an associate of arts degree.

He had worked hard to pursue a bachelor of arts degree in anthropology and computer science from the University of Arkansas while working full time. He was short of reaching this goal by two courses.

Andy liked the discipline of martial arts. He built a community of friends through the study of Mong Su Dom Ti. His hard work earned him a black belt.

Andy was a long- time member of Immanuel Baptist Church in Rogers where he attended with his family since infancy. He made a personal decision to follow Jesus and was baptized there in 1988. He participated in many activities of the church as a child and young man. He later volunteered in many of those same ministries and anywhere else that help was needed.

Andy loved outdoor activities including camping, sitting by the fire pit, hiking, and hunting. He ran several 5K’s, a half marathon, and a Spartan Race over the last five years. He was an avid reader and history buff and would passionately debate current events. He was a writer of short stories and poetry which he would share with his close friends.

It was easy to walk away with a smile from time spent with Andy. He was fun, quick with one-liners, a great storyteller, and enjoyed every opportunity to gather with family and friends. He was employed with Rocket Software as an IT support team member. It was a job he truly enjoyed. His team has been very complimentary of his work ethic and his easy-going likeable personality. They have expressed deep regret at his loss.

Andy was preceded in death by all of his grandparents as well as stillborn sister Shelby Renee.

He is survived by his parents Bill and Marty of Rogers, Ark.; brother Brian Keeling and wife Heather of Pea Ridge, Ark.; one niece he doted on, Finley Renee Keeling; and numerous beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins.

His family is grateful of the hope they have in Jesus Christ that one day they will see him again in Heaven.

Cremation is under the direction of Epting Funeral Home of Bentonville, Ark. The family has plans to scatter his ashes at the muchloved deer camp with his friends. A memorial service is planned for Jan. 9, at 1 p.m., at Immanuel Baptist Church, 2555 S. 26th St., Rogers, Ark. It will be a casual, relaxed time to honor Andy’s memory and the joy he brought to so many. All friends and family able to attend are welcome. The family will be available to receive friends immediately following the service.