James E. Keown, Sr.

James E. Keown, Sr., 87, of Poplar Bluff, MO passed away on February 25, 2019 at St. Francis Medical Center in Cape Girardeau, MO.

Born December 28, 1931 in Hell, MI, Mr. Keown was a former Deputy for both Clay County and Butler County Sheriff Departments. He was a former Chief of Police for Corning and Neelyville Police Departments. He proudly served in the US Army until his retirement. He was a member of VFW Rapert-Poyner Post, a Shriner, and a member of Corning Masonic Lodge #719 where he became a 32° Master Mason. He was of the Baptist faith.

On December 23, 1994, he married Deborah Watson. She survives.

Other survivors include his children Robin Spinks, Bryan Keown, and james E. Keown, Jr.; brothers Dallas, Gene, Lyle, Lyman, and Johnny Keown; sisters Joan and Dorene; several grandchildren and great grandchildren; step-children Keli (Jerry) Heuring, Richie Blackwell, and Laurie Blackwell; and grandchild Lucy Heuring.

He was preceded in death by parents Earl and Thelma (Simon) Keown.

A memorial service will be held Thursday at 2 p.m. at Ermert Funeral Home in Corning. Burial will be at Corning Cemetery.

Online condolences: www.ermertfuneralhome.com