Keith Marcel Watchey 1959 to 2020

Keith was born Aug. 17, 1959, in Jacksonville, N.C., the son of Leonard Watchey and Patricia Seymour Watchey.

Keith graduated from Southwestern Central High School, Lakewood, N.Y., in 1979.

That same year he moved to Southwest Florida, where he resided the rest of his life. Already an accomplished artist, he worked for a teaching studio in Ft. Myers, and later showed several of his paintings at an Art Gallery on Sanibel Island. He moved to Naples, Fla., in 1980, and became involved in several Art Galleries and Shows in the area. He loved music, and in his younger years, taught himself to play the violin and cello.

Keith was an avid collector of palms and tropical plants, and most of all, he loved orchids, and raised several different species. He worked for the Golden Gate Area Civic Association for many years where he produced their web page and monthly newspaper.

He is survived by his partner of 26 years, Geoff Wane of Naples, Fla.; his beloved dogs: Toby and Ben; his parents, Leonard and Patricia Watchey of Chapin, S.C.; two sisters: Kim Alpaugh, of Columbia, S.C., and Karen Waters, of Chapin, S.C.; and several aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grand-parents, Leonard F. Watchey and Mary Watchey of Jamestown, N.Y.; and maternal grandparents, John and Lucille Bowers of Greenhurst, N.Y.

Due to the Covid 19 Virus, Keith will be laid to rest at a later date, in the Bemus Point Cemetery, Bemus Point, N.Y. A memorial service will be held at that time.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggest donations may be made to the Keith Watchey Memorial Fund, c/o Security Federal Bank, 1790 Dutch Fork Road, Irmo, SC 29063.

Electronic donations may be made by contacting the bank directly at 803-569-2710, and a Security Federal Representative will assist you. All donations received will assist in alleviating the financial stress created by Keith’s sudden passing.