Celebrating the life of
Carmen Keating
November 17, 1922 - September 13, 2011
SAVANNAH - Carmen Rodriguez-Valdivieso Keating, born November 17, 1922, in Arcila, Morocco, died September 13, 2011, of natural causes at her home in Savannah.
Carmen -- naturalized as a United States citizen in 1971 -- is well known and respected in Savannah for her involvement in the arts and the community.
A lifelong teacher, Carmen taught Spanish and History at Savannah High School from 1957 through 1959 and later taught grammar school and gave private Spanish lessons. She also worked as a freelance interpreter and translator. Carmen held an eclectic variety of jobs, including the repair of intricate woven rugs after it became known that she was an expert weaver, fabric artist, and seamstress. She created some 50 or more quilts in her lifetime, gifting them to loved ones who continue to treasure them.
Her commanding personality and strongly accented, impeccable English, as well as her true sense of community, make her an enduring presence in Savannah.
She is predeceased by her husband, James Pinckney Keating, and survived by her four children Isabel, Michelle, Michael, and Thomas, and by several grandchildren.
Following a private interment ceremony at the Pinckney Family Cemetery, a memorial service will be planned for a later date.
In lieu of flowers, charitable donations may be sent to the National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York AVe. NW, Washington, D.C. 20005. http://www.nmwa.org/ or the service organization of one's choice.
Please sign our on-line guest book at www.foxandweeks.com
Dear Thomas, Isabel, Michelle and Michael, I've just found out about your mother's passing away. If I had known, I would have certainly sent you my condolences before now. She was a dear person to me and I keep wonderful memories of the times we were together and especially the last time I visited Savannah back in August 1998. I'm glad I went to your house and spent some time with her and your dad. She helped me feel truly at home during my exchange experience, whenever we met, while you all were hosting Christian and I was living with the Grotheers. She was a truly caring, witty, funny and strong-willed person and I will never forget her nor your family. Lots of love to the whole family from Spain, Victor.
- Victor Beltrán Felip, Castellón, GA
Such marvelous Carmen, what wonderful children...H
- Harty Keating, Brandon, MS
Carmen was one of the best mothers I ever knew. She was great at roots and also wings for her chickadees. Some of us only master one of those but Carmen was able to do both. She was and is a great role model for parents and parenting.
- marcie keating grossack, bloomington, IN
Carmen and I were very good friends many years ago, and I moved away from Savannah a long time ago too, so maybe none of you will remember me. But Marcella and Big Jim were Godparents to my son Frank. I dearly loved Carmen and have always been very sorry we lost touch.At times like this I'm so thankful to know there's another life, and we will see each other again. So much love to all of you!
- Doris Semmes, Cookeville, TN
Thomas and Betts and girls- My heart and prayers are with you now in the loss of your sweet and strong mom and grandmother. I still remember Carmen's wonderful hospitality on our beach trip our senior year of college. What a remarkable mom. It was neat to learn more about her through the coments listed here. Lots of love, Penny
- Penny Noyes, Davidson, NC
Carmen was my caretaker for a number of years and the memories I have of her will continue to influence my life for years to come. Carmen taught me to be forever curious and to constantly explore and question the world. Whether I was climbing trees and smelling the herbs in her yard or walking to the park with her, she taught me to experience and observe; to live and love freely. Carmen was an extraordinary human being; this is something I knew even as a small child. Now, as an adult, I read about her life and I am able to see what a truly incredible life she led. It is no surprise that she was able to genuinely inspire so many of those around her. Her memory will forever provide guidance and encouragement to any and all that have come to know her. Indeed Carmen said it best when she exclaimed: “My heart, my heart, my heart!” Sincerely in our hearts, Emily Dickinson
- Emily Dickinson, Savannah, GA
Dear Isabel, Michael, Michelle, and Thomas: I was saddened to read of your dear Mother's death in the Sunday paper. She was a very kind, welcoming lady...a very special person and delightful character! Please accept my deepest condolences. Charles Riner
- Charles Riner, Port Wentworth, GA
Our deepest sympathies are with your family during this time. Lorene and Walter Hale
- Lorene Hale, Savannah, GA
Much love from us to you. Aunt Carmen was one of a kind and brought spice to life in all she did! She always had time to sit down and visit and ask about everyone. She surrounded herself with beautiful handmade works of art/love. She usually had a song and story to share and always showed love and compassion to me. Her children are a testament to her love of the arts and compassion and sense of humor! : I am so glad to have shared in her journey on this earth and look forward to seeing her again in heaven. May you all have sweet memories come to mind, rainbows to remind you of her and love to carry on her legacy. {{{{HUGS ALL AROUND}}}}}. Love, Amber,Rob, Ben and Cameron
- Amber Keating Zielinski, Franklin, TN
So sorry for your loss, I will always remember Aunt Carmen as a strong and dynamic lady. We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers.
- Shawn Keating, Loxley, AL
I am very sorry to hear about Carmen's passing. I know she will be missed. My love and condelences to all her children.
- Betty Keating, Brandon, MS
I am so sorry to learn of the loss of my Savannah High School home room teacher. She was such a delight to greet us first thing in the morning and always so cheerful and shy tooin those days. I remember running into her downtown in Savannah when I was home from Europe and we talked for an hour on the corner of Bull and Broughton. She had 2 babies at the time and was expecting another. I have often asked about her but could not remember her married name. Rest in Peace Miss V. Loved you. Mavis Bazemore Weaver, SHS. Class of '60
- Mavis Bazemore Weaver, Knoxville, TN
What a beautiful life! Her knowledge of languages was incredible. It was always such a treat to get a letter from her. Love to the children...
- Mary Floyd, TAMPA, FL
OY.... Oy..... i just saw it ....oy...oy... My hugs to all of you , Now a world without Jim, Carmen and Harry... what are we to do? G-d bless all of you. Love, Lizzi
- LIZ BRAUSER, HOLLYWOOD, FL
Carmen's influence on our children's lives has been immeasurable. She taught them a love of, and compassion for all- all beings, things, experiences...a love of being. She taught them to savor the moment-to relish each bite, to feel and smell the paint, the mud, the herbs, the fabric...She fostered curiosity and experimenting. Carmen's influence played a major role in their exceptional mastery of foreign languages, their passion for helping others, social sensitivity and empathy. Her quilts are Keepsakes. Carmen always greeted us 'My heart, my heart, my heart,' and she lives on in our hearts and passes on to those we love. With all our hearts, Joe Ann Brandt and Bill Dickinson
- Joe Ann Brandt, Savannah, GA
We were all saddened to learn about Carmen, especially my mother. We have shared stories and our memories of Carmen amongst ourselves. We know how much she loved all of you.
- Renee Portman Dunn, Savananah, GA
michelle and family, very sorry to read of your moms passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family duing this most difficult time.
- alan vanvleck, savannah, GA
My Dear Friends, I am so sorry for your loss. Carmen has always had a special place in my memory and in my heart. I pray you will feel the strong comforting arms of the Lord around you. Love,
- Georgianna Magoulas, Savannah, GA
We'll all miss Carmen - so much part of so many childhoods - don't know if people know who their real mother is...I know how everybody feels about Carmen - I met her so long ago- and she was such an unreal type of person to discover in Savannah. She was unreal but still so much like your own to so many children - not just her own. She will so be missed. I send to you all of the love,comfort and support that Carmen showed to so many in Savannah- she was indeed a presence! All my best- Bernita Slotin
- Bernita slotin, Hollywood, FL
Mom and I are sitting at our table and we are so sad about Carmen and reading what others write and remembering her for so many things... So many stories... So much history between the Keatings and he Slotins! Aye! And oy! Sending love and wishing for G-d's grace for ya'll, Liz
- Liz and bernita, Hollywood, FL
From ages 2-7, I spent most of my days with Carmen, who was like a grandmother to me. Carmen's free-spirited nature exposed me to experiences and viewpoints that were vastly different from those of my peers. She always encouraged me to explore anything and everything in which I showed interest.' That is literally an excerpt from my medical school application essay. I'm now 18 months away from being a doctor and I would never be here without Carmen. The line of colored glass bottles on the window sill, the scent of rosewater and jingling of bangle bracelets, early memories of learning French and Spanish. Carmen truly touched my life and she will forever be a part of who I am. All the love in the world, Ashley
- Ashley Dickinson, Augusta, GA
Dear Thomas, Isabel, Michelle and Michael, I've just found out about your mother's passing away. If I had known, I would have certainly sent you my condolences before now. She was a dear person to me and I keep wonderful memories of the times we were together and especially the last time I visited Savannah back in August 1998. I'm glad I went to your house and spent some time with her and your dad. She helped me feel truly at home during my exchange experience, whenever we met, while you all were hosting Christian and I was living with the Grotheers. She was a truly caring, witty, funny and strong-willed person and I will never forget her nor your family. Lots of love to the whole family from Spain, Victor.
- Victor Beltrán Felip, Castellón, GA
Such marvelous Carmen, what wonderful children...H
- Harty Keating, Brandon, MS
Carmen was one of the best mothers I ever knew. She was great at roots and also wings for her chickadees. Some of us only master one of those but Carmen was able to do both. She was and is a great role model for parents and parenting.
- marcie keating grossack, bloomington, IN
Carmen and I were very good friends many years ago, and I moved away from Savannah a long time ago too, so maybe none of you will remember me. But Marcella and Big Jim were Godparents to my son Frank. I dearly loved Carmen and have always been very sorry we lost touch.At times like this I'm so thankful to know there's another life, and we will see each other again. So much love to all of you!
- Doris Semmes, Cookeville, TN
Thomas and Betts and girls- My heart and prayers are with you now in the loss of your sweet and strong mom and grandmother. I still remember Carmen's wonderful hospitality on our beach trip our senior year of college. What a remarkable mom. It was neat to learn more about her through the coments listed here. Lots of love, Penny
- Penny Noyes, Davidson, NC
Carmen was my caretaker for a number of years and the memories I have of her will continue to influence my life for years to come. Carmen taught me to be forever curious and to constantly explore and question the world. Whether I was climbing trees and smelling the herbs in her yard or walking to the park with her, she taught me to experience and observe; to live and love freely. Carmen was an extraordinary human being; this is something I knew even as a small child. Now, as an adult, I read about her life and I am able to see what a truly incredible life she led. It is no surprise that she was able to genuinely inspire so many of those around her. Her memory will forever provide guidance and encouragement to any and all that have come to know her. Indeed Carmen said it best when she exclaimed: “My heart, my heart, my heart!” Sincerely in our hearts, Emily Dickinson
- Emily Dickinson, Savannah, GA
Dear Isabel, Michael, Michelle, and Thomas: I was saddened to read of your dear Mother's death in the Sunday paper. She was a very kind, welcoming lady...a very special person and delightful character! Please accept my deepest condolences. Charles Riner
- Charles Riner, Port Wentworth, GA
Our deepest sympathies are with your family during this time. Lorene and Walter Hale
- Lorene Hale, Savannah, GA
Much love from us to you. Aunt Carmen was one of a kind and brought spice to life in all she did! She always had time to sit down and visit and ask about everyone. She surrounded herself with beautiful handmade works of art/love. She usually had a song and story to share and always showed love and compassion to me. Her children are a testament to her love of the arts and compassion and sense of humor! : I am so glad to have shared in her journey on this earth and look forward to seeing her again in heaven. May you all have sweet memories come to mind, rainbows to remind you of her and love to carry on her legacy. {{{{HUGS ALL AROUND}}}}}. Love, Amber,Rob, Ben and Cameron
- Amber Keating Zielinski, Franklin, TN
So sorry for your loss, I will always remember Aunt Carmen as a strong and dynamic lady. We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers.
- Shawn Keating, Loxley, AL
I am very sorry to hear about Carmen's passing. I know she will be missed. My love and condelences to all her children.
- Betty Keating, Brandon, MS
I am so sorry to learn of the loss of my Savannah High School home room teacher. She was such a delight to greet us first thing in the morning and always so cheerful and shy tooin those days. I remember running into her downtown in Savannah when I was home from Europe and we talked for an hour on the corner of Bull and Broughton. She had 2 babies at the time and was expecting another. I have often asked about her but could not remember her married name. Rest in Peace Miss V. Loved you. Mavis Bazemore Weaver, SHS. Class of '60
- Mavis Bazemore Weaver, Knoxville, TN
What a beautiful life! Her knowledge of languages was incredible. It was always such a treat to get a letter from her. Love to the children...
- Mary Floyd, TAMPA, FL
OY.... Oy..... i just saw it ....oy...oy... My hugs to all of you , Now a world without Jim, Carmen and Harry... what are we to do? G-d bless all of you. Love, Lizzi
- LIZ BRAUSER, HOLLYWOOD, FL
Carmen's influence on our children's lives has been immeasurable. She taught them a love of, and compassion for all- all beings, things, experiences...a love of being. She taught them to savor the moment-to relish each bite, to feel and smell the paint, the mud, the herbs, the fabric...She fostered curiosity and experimenting. Carmen's influence played a major role in their exceptional mastery of foreign languages, their passion for helping others, social sensitivity and empathy. Her quilts are Keepsakes. Carmen always greeted us 'My heart, my heart, my heart,' and she lives on in our hearts and passes on to those we love. With all our hearts, Joe Ann Brandt and Bill Dickinson
- Joe Ann Brandt, Savannah, GA
We were all saddened to learn about Carmen, especially my mother. We have shared stories and our memories of Carmen amongst ourselves. We know how much she loved all of you.
- Renee Portman Dunn, Savananah, GA
michelle and family, very sorry to read of your moms passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family duing this most difficult time.
- alan vanvleck, savannah, GA
My Dear Friends, I am so sorry for your loss. Carmen has always had a special place in my memory and in my heart. I pray you will feel the strong comforting arms of the Lord around you. Love,
- Georgianna Magoulas, Savannah, GA
We'll all miss Carmen - so much part of so many childhoods - don't know if people know who their real mother is...I know how everybody feels about Carmen - I met her so long ago- and she was such an unreal type of person to discover in Savannah. She was unreal but still so much like your own to so many children - not just her own. She will so be missed. I send to you all of the love,comfort and support that Carmen showed to so many in Savannah- she was indeed a presence! All my best- Bernita Slotin
- Bernita slotin, Hollywood, FL
Mom and I are sitting at our table and we are so sad about Carmen and reading what others write and remembering her for so many things... So many stories... So much history between the Keatings and he Slotins! Aye! And oy! Sending love and wishing for G-d's grace for ya'll, Liz
- Liz and bernita, Hollywood, FL
From ages 2-7, I spent most of my days with Carmen, who was like a grandmother to me. Carmen's free-spirited nature exposed me to experiences and viewpoints that were vastly different from those of my peers. She always encouraged me to explore anything and everything in which I showed interest.' That is literally an excerpt from my medical school application essay. I'm now 18 months away from being a doctor and I would never be here without Carmen. The line of colored glass bottles on the window sill, the scent of rosewater and jingling of bangle bracelets, early memories of learning French and Spanish. Carmen truly touched my life and she will forever be a part of who I am. All the love in the world, Ashley
- Ashley Dickinson, Augusta, GA
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
