Mary (Hedden) Keener

Mary Hedden Keener, 86, of Highlands, NC, passed away peacefully surrounded by family. Born on May 24, 1938, in Macon County, NC, Mary was the fourth daughter of the late J. Quincy and Emma Stewart Hedden.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James (Jamie) Howard Keener; and siblings Barbara Ledford, June Hedden, Hester Keener, Shelba McFarland, Hope Calloway, and Dwight Hedden. Mary is survived by her cherished children: Sharon Keener Manning (Mike), Tim Keener (Donna), Michael Keener (Stephanie), and Melanie Keener Miller (Buddy); grandchildren Christine Manning Bailey (Chris), Kelsey Manning Poell (Garrett), Michaela Manning (Max Garrett), Benjamin and Jonathan Miller, and Christian, Caleb, and Carson Keener. She is also survived by her sisters Helen Justice of Hendersonville, NC, and Alice Lee of Knoxville, TN, along with many loving nieces and nephews.

Many heartfelt thanks to the dedicated caregivers that helped make it possible for Mary to spend her final days resting in peace at home. Stephanie Hensley, Cindy Fowler, Delores Jones, Connie Watson and Sherry Reese. Shortoff Baptist Church was Mary's longstanding church home.  She was a proud graduate of Glenville High School. She began her career as a receptionist for several doctors and at Highlands Hospital. Following her marriage, she diligently managed the books for Keener Brothers Construction Company until her retirement in 2002. Mary’s life was defined by faith, family, and fierce determination. She found her greatest joy in time spent with family—especially on the family’s farm in Raytown, Georgia—and was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was an avid gardener and canner, a talented quilter, and never passed up a good puzzle. She and Jamie also traveled throughout the Carolinas and Georgia competing in barbecue festivals and cook-offs, sharing their love of cooking and community.

Mary will be remembered for her unwavering convictions, tireless devotion to those she loved, and her spirited nature. In a final act of generosity and commitment to learning, she donated her body to the UNC School of Medicine Anatomical Studies Division. Please join us for a Celebration of Life that will be held at the Highlands Community Center on Saturday, June 21,2025 at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Stewart Cemetery Fund, c/o Carl Stewart, 3295 Yellow Mountain Rd., Cullowhee, NC 28723.

Online condolences can be left at www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the Keener family.