Rudy Jay Keith, 46, of rural Bellefontaine, passed away Friday, June 19, 2020, at his home.
As a member of the Shawnee Nation United Remnant Band, he was known as “Stone Bird” and was one of the Head Warriors. “Bird” was born in Port Clinton to Rudy and Pam (Stout) Keith.
He married Danielle Brugler on August 12, 2012, and she survives in rural Bellefontaine. “Bird” is also survived by his father and step-mother, Rudy and Sasie Keith of Virginia; his mother Pam Keith of Oak Harbor; children: Gunner (Jensen Laine) Keith, Kade Keith, Mekayla (Seth Pope) Carty, and Lacey (Lukas) Pope; four grandchildren: Muna, Reva, Orville, and Ina Mae Pope; two brothers: Matt (Sarah) Keith, and Kevin (Michelle) Keith; a sister Danielle (Derek) Dunwoody; several nieces and nephews; and his tribal brother and sister, Stone Man and Sunflower and their son Joey.
“Bird” was a “jack of all trades, master of some.” He had worked as a custodian at West Liberty–Salem Schools and also at the Shawnee Nation Tribal land. “Bird” never wore shoes, as he always wanted to stay in direct connection to Mother Earth He enjoyed woodworking, singing, and writing music. He loved his grandchildren and the youngsters of the tribe, “Bird” cherished the time he spent with the younger generations. Most importantly, he spoke the word of God to many people and shared his belief that truth conquers.
Tribal burial services have been conducted privately, with interment on the Shawnee Burial Grounds at Zane Shawnee Caverns.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family, in care of Eichholtz Daring & Sanford Funeral Home, 321 N. Main St. Bellefontaine, OH 43311.
The family was assisted with funeral arrangements by the staff of Eichholtz Daring & Sanford Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Bellefontaine, and online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.edsfh.com.