Stephanie S. Keezel

Stephanie Jean Stratford Keezel, age 64, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2023 after a hard-fought battle with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Formerly of Jacksonville, Florida, Stephanie was a graduate of The Bolles School, where she was a member of numerous clubs and organizations, including Serteen, French Club, Pep Club, and Varsity Cheerleading (Team Captain). She was also a member of the 1977 Homecoming Court and a recipient of the Distinguished Service Award.

Stephanie went on to graduate cum laude from Florida State University, receiving both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Elementary Education. While in college, she was a member of Alpha Lambda Delta, Rho Lambda, Mortar Board, and Panhellenic. Stephanie was also a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority, where she served as President and was elected as a Kappa Alpha Theta Memorial Scholar. Stephanie was always a proud “Theta” and cherished the memories from her times at the Theta house. Stephanie was also a Sigma Chi Little Sister, where she developed many close friendships that flourished throughout her lifetime.

In her professional life, Stephanie was a devoted teacher for over 30 years, and focused her work on helping students with learning disabilities. In 2002, she was awarded Seminole County Teacher of the Year. Having worked in several public-school systems throughout her career, Stephanie was widely known for her compassion and dedication to her students’ success. Often, she kept in touch with many of her students long after they left her classroom.

Among everything else, Stephanie was always well integrated in the community. During her time in Bradenton, she was an avid member of the Junior League of Manatee County, where she served as Vice President, as well as various other committee and board positions. After moving to Longwood, Stephanie became involved in countless aspects of Lake Brantley athletics, including her roles as Co-Fundraiser for the Lake Brantley Pop Warner Cheerleading and Football organization and Senior Board Member for Lake Brantley High School Girl’s Lacrosse team. There was rarely a team or club which her daughters participated in that Stephanie did not somehow volunteer and/or contribute to.

Throughout her many stages of life, Stephanie was known to be a devoted friend, passionate teacher, selfless daughter, loving wife, and nurturing mother. Her friends recall her impeccable organization and unfaltering empathy for others. Stephanie would also be upset if it wasn’t mentioned that she was a lifelong, loyal FSU fan – Go ‘Noles!

Stephanie is preceded in death by her father, Stephen Stratford. She is survived by her loving husband of 37 years, Bill Keezel; two daughters, Karey Keezel Abolafia (Josh) and Devin Keezel; mother, Beverly Jean Stratford; sisters, Liz Stratford Bray and Alison Stratford; and two adorable grandchildren, Abigail and Jesse Abolafia.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 24th at the Tap Room at Dubsdread, 549 Par Street, Orlando, FL 32804, from 4-7pm. All family and friends are welcome to join as we celebrate the beautiful life of Stephanie Stratford Keezel.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in her honor.