Thomas "Tommy" Aiken Mckeown

Thomas “Tommy” Aiken McKeown, 79, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, December 2, 2024. A service to honor his life will be held on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Hopewell ARP Church, with Rev. Greg Dellaney officiating. The family will receive friends for visitation at the church from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM before the service. Burial will follow in the Hopewell ARP Church cemetery.

Born on January 17, 1945, in Chester, SC, Tommy was the son of the late Ethel Aiken McKeown and the late Thomas Chisolm McKeown. He was a proud graduate of Chester High School. He earned a degree in Engineering from the University of South Carolina. After graduation, he dedicated his career to public service, working as a civil servant at the Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point in Havelock, NC, until his retirement.

A lifelong and devoted member of Hopewell ARP Church, Tommy contributed to his church in many ways, including singing in the choir and serving on various committees. He was also an avid supporter of the University of South Carolina Gamecocks, a passion that stayed with him throughout his life.

Tommy is survived by his stepson Robert Lawson, daughter-in-law Wendy Lawson, and his cherished grandchildren, Nora-Ashley Lawson and Brandon Lawson, all of Chester. He is also survived by several cousins who were like siblings to him, with whom he shared a deep, lifelong bond.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Elizabeth “Betsy” McGowan McKeown.

Tommy’s kind spirit, dedication to his family, and love for his community will be remembered by all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.

Memorials may be made to Hopewell ARP Church, 672 Banks Weir Rd, Blackstock, SC 29014

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.barronfuneralhome.com