Carol Margaret Keim

Carol Margaret Keim, a beloved member of the San Antonio community and cherished soul whose life was defined by kindness, intellect, and unwavering devotion to her family and faith, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas. Born on October 2, 1936, in Washington D.C., Carol's journey through life was marked by remarkable achievements, lasting friendships, and a profound influence on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

From an early age, Carol exhibited a remarkable adaptability and spirit, having attended 22 different schools across Germany, France, and throughout the United States between first and eleventh grade. A high school member of Kappa Beta Psi (KBY) Sorority, she still maintains lasting and valuable friendships. This unique and varied educational experience no doubt contributed to the wise and insightful woman she would become. She pursued higher education at Duke University (1954 -1958), where she completed a double major in mathematics and psychology ahead of schedule, a testament to her exceptional intellect and dedication. During her university years, she was an active member of Zeta Tau Alpha (ZTA), embracing the bonds of sisterhood and leadership.

It was at Duke where Carol met the love of her life, her college sweetheart and devoted husband Walter "Wally" Keim, with whom she shared 61 wonderful years of marriage. Though Wally has since preceded her in passing, his memory remained a constant source of inspiration for Carol throughout her remaining life.

Beyond her academic and personal life, Carol was deeply involved in her many communites. A Girl Scout Co-Leader, she dedicated herself to nurturing young minds and hearts, instilling values of courage, confidence, and character. Her active participation extended into various military clubs, reflecting respect and commitment to those who serve. For over fifty years, she was a proud and faithful member of St. Matthews United Methodist Church, where her presence was a pillar of warmth and fellowship.

Professionally, Carol devoted fifteen years to working as a bookkeeper, a role she embraced with precision and care. But to her family, she was affectionately known as "Mimi," a title given in loving acknowledgment of the joy and wisdom she imparted to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Carol’s personality was a beautiful blend of sweetness, kindness, and intelligence. She was a great conversationalist, able to engage and inspire those around her with her wit and empathy. An avid book reader, she enjoyed immersing herself in stories that broadened her horizon and enriched her understanding of the world. She was also a devoted collector of Hummels, a hobby that brought her much delight and reflected her cherishing of delicate craftsmanship and tradition. Carol and Wally enjoyed traveling the world visiting many places throughout their life together.

She is survived by her beloved children, Roger (Judith) and Peggy (Billy); her grandchildren Rickie (Kenny), Christian (Georgia), and Alexander (Olivia); as well as her great-grandchildren George, Jack, Penelope, JoseRae, Percy, and one sweet little blessing on the way. Together, they carry forward her legacy of love, resilience, and joy.

Carol was preceded in death by her devoted husband Wally Keim, her loving parents, Ada and Laurie Hess, sister Patricia Ann Jernigan, and son Stephen Lyon Keim whose memories she always held close.

A visitation to honor Carol’s life will be held on June 4, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at St. Matthew's United Methodist Church, located at 2738 MacArthur View, San Antonio, TX 78217. Following the visitation, her burial will take place at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd., San Antonio, TX 78209, beginning at 2:30 PM.

Carol Keim’s life was a remarkable tapestry woven with love, service, and cherished relationships. Her legacy of grace and warmth will remain steadfast in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered, a beacon of goodness and an exemplar of a life well lived. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Carol’s honor to Down Syndrome Association of South Texas, ARC of San Antonio, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.