Captain James W. Keathley, USN (Ret.), 91, of Pensacola, FL passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 6, 2026.

Jim was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, and proud naval officer whose life was defined by service, integrity, and dedication to others. Born on October 9, 1934, in Miami, FL, he developed an early sense of duty and purpose that would guide him throughout his life.

Following his education at the University of Florida, Jim began a distinguished career on May 3, 1957, in the US Navy. As a Naval Aviator, he flew both the A-1 Skyraider and the A-4C Skyhawk, earning the respect of his fellow aviators for his exceptional skill, professionalism, and commitment to excellence. During his service with VA-45, he served as an Instrument and Tactics Instructor, training and mentoring future naval aviators while flying the F9F-8T Cougar. His ability to lead and teach helped prepare countless pilots for the challenges of military aviation.

In September 1965, Captain Keathley joined VA-95 at Naval Air Station Lemoore, CA. He subsequently deployed to Southeast Asia aboard the aircraft carrier USS Intrepid during a critical period of wartime operations.

As his career progressed, Captain Keathley served as Flag Lieutenant to the Commander of the Pacific Fleet. He attended the Naval War College in Newport, RI, and later served as Aide to the Chief of Naval Operations, Pacific Fleet, at Pearl Harbor, HI. This assignment provided him with invaluable experience at the highest levels of naval leadership during a time of war.

Captain Keathley later assumed command of VA-37 and deployed to the Mediterranean, demonstrating the leadership and operational expertise that would characterize his entire career. In July 1975, he attended the National War College in Washington, DC, further preparing him for senior leadership roles within the Navy.

He went on to command VA-125, the Navy's A-7 Corsair II readiness squadron at NAS Lemoore. Additional assignments included a staff tour with Carrier Group Three and service at the Pentagon in Washington, DC. In every position he held, Captain Keathley’s naval career was marked by exceptional leadership, unwavering professionalism, and a deep commitment to the sailors and aviators under his command.

Whether serving at sea, ashore, or in positions of strategic responsibility, he earned the respect and admiration of colleagues and subordinates alike.

Following his retirement from the Navy, after 28 years of dedicated service, Jim continued to serve his community as a Docent at the Naval Aviation Museum. He was a volunteer in the USO and the president of the Master Gardeners Club of Pensacola. He remained a mentor, leader, and trusted friend to many.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jim was known for his kindness, love of entertaining, wisdom, sense of humor, and devotion to family. He enjoyed traveling to Carmel, CA every summer and visiting his children and grandchildren, and treasured the time spent with loved ones. His steady presence, thoughtful guidance, and generous spirit touched countless lives.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, James H and Angelica M. Keathley; his brothers, Julian Keathley, George Keathley, and Charles Keathley; as well as his sisters, Florence Jackson and Adriana Keathley.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Billie S. Keathley; his children, Lynn Fairfield (Bill), Laura Keathley (Jeffery Hof); grandchildren, Christopher Fairfield (Shannon), Sarah Fairfield Montenigro (Philip), Daniel Fairfield (Catherine), James Allen II, and Megan Allen; as well as great-grandchildren, Colin Fairfield, Evan Fairfield, Owen Fairfield, Elizabeth Montenigro, Edmund Fairfield, and Calvin Fairfield.

His family will remember him not only for his distinguished military service, but also for the example he set through a life of honor, courage, and commitment. His legacy will live on in the lives he influenced, the family he cherished, and the country he faithfully served.

Fair winds and following seas, Captain Keathley. Your watch is relieved.

A funeral service will be held 11:30am Friday, July 17, 2026, at Christ Episcopal Church, with Dr. Michael Hoffman officiating. Interment will follow at Barrancas National Cemetery with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s research, the USO, or Christ Episcopal Church in his memory.