Keith Blackey

Keith R. Blackey, 78, died peacefully at his home in North Las Vegas on July 8, 2023. Keith was born on January 11, 1945 in Laconia, New Hampshire to Philip Blackey and Virginia (Duncklee) Blackey. He earned a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering from Wentworth Institute of Technology and a Master's in Business Administration from Northeastern University.

Keith served in the Army for four years, achieving the rank of Specialist E6. After leaving the service, he worked for many years in the tech industry in sales and marketing and then in global marketing and administration.

Keith loved refereeing youth soccer, as well as participating actively in military veterans' groups. In recent years he spent much of his time working in international Scouting organizations, most notably in Afghanistan, where he spent more than a year advising the leaders of groups of Scouts in that country.

His unwavering dedication and support for the Afghan people were truly remarkable. He used his social media accounts daily to share positive news about Afghan society. His efforts to shed light on the struggles, triumphs, and aspirations for the Afghan community left an indelible mark on all those who knew him. Through his words and actions, Keith not only contributed to the creation of a more inclusive world but served as a beacon of hope to countless individuals and will continue to inspire all of us as we strive for a better society.

While a scout in his youth, Keith’s love of the organization came in spending time with both of his boys. Keith served as a leader during their time in Scouts and also made time to referee their soccer games every weekend. His time with his family was spent traveling throughout the Western United States and abroad. His love of new and different cultures influenced both his children and his wife.

Keith is survived by his wife Elizabeth (Barrasso) Blackey, his sons Michael Keith Blackey and Gregory Keith Blackey, and his granddaughters Kimberly, Rosalie, and Marcelee. He is also survived by his brothers Harry Blackey and Dale Blackey and his sister Debbie Blackey. He is predeceased by his sister Donna.