Joe Stanley Keith

Joe Stanley Keith, age 78, passed away Wednesday, April 29, 2020.  Joe was born in Ashgrove, MO and moved to New Mexico as a child.  He attended UNM and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Music education. Joe and his wife owned The Music Mart from 1969-2018. Under his guidance, the business grew to be one of the top in the industry.  Joe served on the American Choral Directors Association National Board, Chair of the Handbell Industry Council, AGEHR board, HIC board, ABA Industry Council, and along with his wife, was a founding member of the Retail Print Music Dealers Association where they were awarded the RPMDA's top honor, the Dorothy Award.  His passion for music brought much joy to many people.

Through the years, Joe was awarded many times for his dedication and service to the industry. Joe was an active member of The Rotary Club of Albuquerque, and a member of St. John’s United Methodist Church.  Joe directed many choral and handbell groups over the last 54 years. Joe enjoyed traveling with friends to numerous states and countries, and experiencing the music and cultures around the world. He spent his retirement arranging many pieces for his publishing company, Mentor Music, and for his Men's Chorus and St. John’s.

Joe is survived by his wife of 58 years, Claudia Tharp Keith; children, Stan and wife, Vicky, Michael, Michelle and husband, Ron; his grandchildren, Garrett, Chris, Evan, and Jessica, all of Albuquerque.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Lewis Keith; grandson, Drew Keith; step-grandson, Brandon Jackson; and infant daughter, Michelle.

Memorials can be made to St. John's Music Ministry, 2626 Arizona NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110 or online at https://www.musicatstjohns.org/

Private Services will be held, and a Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.