Judith Mills Keenan - Obituary

udith M. Keenan (Judy) passed away peacefully the morning of Tuesday, March 21, 2023 from complications of heart disease and kidney disease. Judy was 87 years old at the time of her death. Prior to this recent bout of illness, Judy was healthy and active, enjoying spending time with family and her partner Donald Halter. Judy was born in Brooklyn, New York on October 13, 1935 to mother Dorothy Hougham and father Joseph Mills. Judy grew up in Long Island, New York. After graduating from high school, Judy attended Julliard School of Music for performance and Hobart and William Smith Colleges in upstate New York. After meeting and marrying Brian James Keenan, Judy relocated to Annapolis, Maryland with her husband in 1966. Judy worked at the Naval Academy and David Taylor Center while raising her two sons, Brian and Rory. Judy and Brian remained married until his death in 1998. Judy was a very talented vocal performer who specialized in operatic and sacred pieces. She performed solo pieces as well as participating in ensemble productions often with The Colonial Players of Annapolis. She also enjoyed watching her granddaughters follow in her footsteps pursuing careers in music. In her free time, Judy enjoyed tennis, board games, shopping, and spending time with her grandchildren. Judy is survived by her son, Brian Keenan, daughter in law, Melinda Keenan, son, Rory Keenan, brothers, Joseph Mills and Robin Mills, grandchildren, Cassandra Keenan, Erin Keenan, and James Keenan, and partner Donald Halter. A Celebration of Life will be held at Centenary United Methodist Church, 6248 Shady Side Road, Shady Side, Maryland 20764 on April 15, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. Refreshments will be provided after. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org/honor/memorial.