James Bruce Keller

James B. Keller, 75, of Cross Village walked on to the loving arms of Jesus, his daughter Nichole, and to all who went before him. He was surrounded by his wife of 51 years, Jeri, and his family.

Jim was born April 18, 1950, to William "Joe" and Audrey Standish Keller.

Our Jim's faith in God was deep and abiding. Wherever he went his Holy Bible was always with him. Jim joined the U.S. Navy and proudly served our country, 1968 - 1969. He was a member of the Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians, and he received his Native name, Waabizi Inini, Swan.

In 1974 Jim married his one true love, Jeri Lynn Edge. Together they raised daughter Nichole and son Joshua. He loved his family deeply and faithfully. Jim's work included maintaining wells in the oil fields, driving trucks cross country with his wife, and carpentry. In 2016 Jim lost his leg. Not only did he heal quickly, but he inspired many to learn to walk again by sharing his story. Jim carried the veterans flag at traditional powwows, honoring our country and others who served.

Those close to Jim will remember how he loved all his relatives, even those of us with many faults, his songs, writings, and guitar playing. Jim's love for the beach, woods and Spirit Lake is embedded deep in his heart. He loved animals, and leaves behind his beloved dog, Sally. "James Jay" is a legend in Cross Village. His love, laughter and joy of life will live forever. Will the circle be unbroken, by and by Lord, by and by. There's a better home awaiting, in the sky Lord, in the sky.

Jim leaves behind his wife, Jeri; his son, Joshua; two grandchildren; one great grandchild; his mother-in-law, Joyce Edge; his siblings, Maryanne (Jim) Postma, Katherine (Steve) Hibbs, Martha (Leroy) Alvarez, Sandra Napont, Jo Ellen (Matt) Crossett, Diana Keller, Margaret (Brian) Byard, John (Norma) Keller, Steve (Melisa) Keller, Robert (Tracy) Keller, Dave (Shelly) Edge and Steve, Tim and Cindy Edge. Jim also leaves his buddies Alan Foster and Terry Samuels; nephew, Joe Skoczylas and several nieces, nephews, cousins and more.

Jim joins his daughter, Nichole; his parents; father-in-law, Dave Edge; sister, Patricia; niece, Trisha; brothers-in-law, Andy Skoczylas, Richard Napont, and Matt Rogers. Jim's buddies, Ed Keller Sr., Lewis Keller, and several close cousins.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place 11:00 AM Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Cross Village, where the family will visit with friends beginning at 10:00 AM.

Burial will take place at Holy Cross Cemetery in the coming weeks. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family, Joshua Keller, through Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 850 N. Center Avenue, Gaylord MI 49735.

Please share your memories and personal messages with the family on his guestbook below.