Lucretia “Keke” Lynne VanDyke

It is with extreme sadness that after a yearlong battle of cancer Keke was called into the glory of Heaven on Friday, March 11, 2022, by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Passing through the pearly gates and entering the city with streets of gold, she was embraced by her parents Ronald L. Courtney, Verna (Phillips) Courtney, father-in-law, Larry “Red” S. VanDyke, and a brother, Ronald “Ron” E. Courtney.

Since she was born on May 30, 1964, Keke always had a spark about her. Born forth in a family of five, her brothers and sisters said, growing up she was a real firecracker, a tiny package, packing a powerful punch. And though they did not have much in the ways of the world, their mother’s great faith demonstrated, that so long as they had Family, Faith, & Love for Jesus they would always have enough.

In high school, Keke met Richard “Dick” VanDyke and after graduating, they were married September 2, 1983. They had three daughters Telea, Latia, & Courtney. In 2005 Keke’s faith and steadfast spirit was put to test when she was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer. Though her body grew weary, her trust in the Lord never wavered. After a 2 year battle her tenacity was victorious, the Lord delivered her from the evil that ravaged her body. In her most recent battle, her strength was failing and still her faith never faltered.

Her infectious faith filled spirit never knew a stranger. She took her discipleship serious, with genuine intension. Whether it was dinner at date night or sitting sidelines at her grand-childrens’ events, she never missed the opportunity to introduce someone to her Savior. Another win for the Kingdom of Heaven. She was a bright and fiery spark that helped to light the world and helped to ignite the love of Jesus in many.
“I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness but have the light of life.” John 8:11

Lucretia will continue to be dearly loved and deeply missed by her husband, Richard “Dick” VanDyke, three daughters, Telea (Bill) McKissick, Latia (Joey) VanDyke and Courtney (Kodee) Kirchner; five cherished granddaughters, Ezrah, Noa, & Rowyn McKissick, Maeli & Nora Kirchner; two sisters, Marcia (Max) McCafferty and Rebecca (John) Johns; a brother, Rick (Princess) Courtney and a sister-in-law Mary Courtney. Also surviving are a mother-in-law, Nancy (Lane) VanDyke, two brothers-in law, Larry VanDyke Jr. and Brian (Heather) VanDyke, and a sister-in-law Yolanda (Mike) Maxwell.

Though we had a year to prepare ourselves for this day, our hearts were not ready. We invite family and friends to help celebrate her life from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Wednesday, March 16, 2022 at CHILES-LAMAN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, SHAWNEE CHAPEL.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM on Thursday, March 17, 2022 at CHILES-LAMAN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, SHAWNEE CHAPEL, with Rev. Brandon Green officiating.

Interment in Woodland Cemetery, Beaverdam will immediately follow the services at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the family or Chiles-Laman Funeral Home to offset final expenses.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com.