Molly Margaret Keats

Molly Margaret Keats, age 20, passed away near her home in Franklin, Pennsylvania on February 8th, 2011.

She was born to Dr. Joel B. Keats and Jill French Keats on August 30, 1990 at Franklin Regional Medical Center in Franklin, Pennsylvania.

She attended St. Patrick School through the 8th grade, where she enjoyed playing basketball and singing in the choir. As an Honors student at Franklin Area High School, she competed with both the cross-country and swim teams, was editor of the "Franklinite" year book and a member of the National Honors Society. After graduation she traveled to Orange, California to attend Chapman University, where she quickly made many friends and studied English Literature with the hopes to one day become a high school teacher.

Molly touched many people with her kind, caring attitude; deep love; and fun, free spirit. Although her time was short, her impact on her families, friends and communities was great and all will be forever touched by her life.

She is survived by her parents, Dr. Joel B. Keats of Altadena, CA and Jill F. Keats of Chandler, AZ; her siblings, Shea Keats of New York, NY and Mr. & Mrs. John & Nicole Keats of Streetsboro, OH; as well as a large extended family and beloved circle of friends. She is preceded in death by her grandparents, Mr. & Mrs. John & Margaret Keats, Mr. John W. French, and Mrs. Betty French.

A mass of the Christian Burial will be celebrated this summer at St. Patrick Church in Franklin, Pennsylvania.

In lieu of flowers, the Keats family asks that donations be made to The Molly Keats Fund to benefit search and rescue efforts along the Allegheny River in Franklin and suicide prevention. Donations may be sent to:

The Molly Keats Fund c/o First National Bank 210 13th St. Franklin, PA 16323

The Keats family would like to take this time to thank their family and friends, as well as the larger Franklin community, for their tireless support and love during this difficult time.