Beloved Annapolis Resident and World War II Veteran William ‘Billy’ Keyes Dies at 104

William “Billy” Keyes of Annapolis, a World War II veteran, retired public school teacher, former police officer, artist, and devoted community ambassador, passed away on Saturday, February 14, 2026. He was 104.

According to the Library of Congress, Mr. Keyes served in World War II with the historic 761st Tank Battalion. After the war, he returned to civilian life, working as a police officer in Washington, D.C., and later spent more than three decades teaching in the Anne Arundel County Public School System before retiring. 

Related: The Log Book Project | William “Billy” Keyes

Anne Arundel County Police Chief Amal Awad said she first met Mr. Keyes in 2021 during the posthumous honoring of Deputy Sheriff George Phelps, Jr., the county’s first African American officer. 

Chief Awad recalled Mr. Keyes' charisma, quick wit, and generosity, sharing afternoons listening to stories of his military service, teaching, art, love of plants, and insights on history and culture. "In March 2024, Mr. Keyes was sworn in as an Honorary Anne Arundel County Police Officer," Chief Awad stated. 

In a July 2018 Facebook post, Carl Snowden, Convener of the Caucus of African American Leaders, described Keyes as “a living resource,” highlighting his meeting with Fidel Castro in 1959, his service in WWII, his life in Arundel-on-the-Bay, and his home full of historical artifacts. Snowden noted, “Billy Keyes gave me a history lesson that you will not get in Anne Arundel County Public Schools.”

In a more recent statement, Snowden called Mr. Keyes “a walking encyclopedia of history” who had marched with Martin Luther King, Jr., and met Malcolm X, emphasizing the breadth of his experiences and impact. 

According to a May 2024 social media post, the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.’s Elite Eta Eta Lambda Chapter paid tribute to Mr. William Keyes following his 103rd birthday celebration, marking the occasion with a Memorial Day gathering.

“This Memorial Day was extra special for the brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Eta Eta Lambda Chapter, as they gathered to celebrate an incredible milestone: the 103rd birthday of Bro. William Keyes,” the post stated. “The festivities took place at Orioles Park, and despite a forecast that threatened rain, the skies stayed clear, allowing for a perfect day of celebration. The event was graced by the presence of over 30 fraternity brothers and their families, who came together to honor Bro. Keyes's remarkable journey. The highlight of the day was the opportunity to spend time with Brother Gov. Wes Moore in the prestigious Governor's Suite, adding a touch of elegance and camaraderie to the celebration.”

The fraternity's post described Mr. Keyes as “a beacon of wisdom and experience, enjoyed the love and admiration of his Alpha Phi Alpha Brothers.”

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Lasting Tributes Cremation and Funeral Care. A celebration of life is scheduled for March 25, 2026,10:00 AM, according to an online obituary.