Robert "Keith" Barkley

ROCKY MOUNT – Robert “Keith” Barkley, age 75, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, March 14, 2026.  Born in Nash County, NC on August 8, 1950, he was the son of the late Robert Marion Barkley and Adelyn Proctor Barkley.  He was also preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Steve Lagna.

Keith lived a full and hardworking life marked by deep faith, a love for the outdoors, and a personality that left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.  A man of true GRIT, he was Genuine in heart, Resilient through every season of Life, and Industrious in all that he did, showing a deep love for his family, his farm, and the land he cared for so faithfully. During his battle with cancer, he never lost his trust in the Lord and often shared that he was not afraid, finding peace in knowing that God was in control and that he would spend eternity with his Savior.  In his earlier years, Keith enjoyed deer, bird, and rabbit hunting and loved working with his bird dogs, finding great joy in fishing and spending peaceful time on the water with family and friends.

He retired in 2012 after 42 years of service with the North Carolina Department of Agriculture, but he was never one to sit still.  Keith loved working with his hands, could fix just about anything, and even built his own home with the help of his family. He took great pride in tending his garden each year, raising 3000 heads of collards and other vegetables, which he enjoyed sharing just as much as growing, often giving the best of his harvest to others. He was known for his strong work ethic, generous spirit, and willingness to give his time, wisdom, and help to anyone who needed it.  Known for his unique sense of humor and mischievous nature, Keith loved to make people laugh and never met a stranger, always ready to strike up a conversation or give directions the back-road way that only he seemed to understand.

Keith loved North Carolina and especially looked forward to his yearly September trips to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.  In later years, spending time at Harker’s Island, often calling it a peaceful place “God’s country.” Above all, he loved his family dearly and was proud to call them his own, sharing a devoted marriage of 57½ years with his beloved wife.  His life was one of strength, perseverance, and love, and the legacy he leaves behind will live on for generations. Keith was a man with a kind and generous heart, hard worker, loyal friend and truly one of a kind.

Keith is survived by his wife, Etta Barbee Barkley; his sons, Danny Barkley and Adam Barkley; his grandchildren, Haley and Devan (Ashley); and his sister, Donna Barkley Lagna.

A Funeral Service to celebrate Keith’s life will be held on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at 3:00 PM at West Edgecombe Baptist Church, 13821 NC Hwy. 43, North, Rocky Mount, NC  27801 with Pastor Matthew Mayo, Pastor Jerry Barbee, and Pastor Ronnie West officiating.  Burial will follow at Cedar Grove Cemetery.  The family will receive friends and relatives on Saturday, March 21, 2026 from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home.

Keith was a simple man and he made it clear that he wanted everyone to come dressed casual, just as he always lived comfortable, easygoing, and true to himself.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Keith’s memory to American Cancer Society, PO Box 11796, Charlotte, NC  28220; or Caring House, 2625 Pickett Road, Durham, NC  27705; or Gentiva Hospice, 1712 W. Howard Ave., Tarboro, NC  27886; or West Edgecombe Baptist Church Homebound Ministry, 13821 NC Hwy. 43, North, Rocky Mount, NC  27801.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.  You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.