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Transfiguration Parish mourns the sudden passing of Parish Life Director

February 16, 2022

 

Deacon Christopher J. Keough, parish life director at Transfiguration Parish, which has faith communities in Schaghticoke and Spiegeltown, was killed in a one-car accident Friday afternoon, Feb. 11, in Troy. He was 66. 

“The sudden passing of Deacon Chris Keough is heartbreaking for his family, his parishioners, brother deacons, colleagues, and the entire Diocese of Albany,” said Bishop Edward B. Scharfenberger. “Deacon Chris was a man of strong faith. He was a dedicated servant to the faithful of Transfiguration Parish. I know they will miss his presence. We will pray for the repose of his soul. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon him.”

Deacon Chris was ordained to the permanent diaconate in the Diocese of Burlington, Vermont, on June 26, 2005. He served in ministry at St. John Vianney Parish in South Burlington and Vermont Catholic Charities. He was administrator of St. Joseph’s Residential Care Home in Burlington and director of the Diocese of Burlington’s Office of the Permanent Diaconate until he relocated to Troy to become Parish Life Director in Transfiguration Parish.

Deacon Chris is survived by his wife of 43 years, Patricia Hawley Keough, his son, Craig (Leigh-Anne) Keough, a brother, Michael (Sonya) Keough. He was predeceased by his twin brother, Craig Francis Keough.

The reception of the body will take place on Friday, Feb. 18, at 3 p.m. at Transfiguration Parish, followed by a prayer vigil at 3:30 p.m. Calling hours will then be held in the church from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, Feb. 19, at 10 a.m., in the church followed by a reception in the church hall. Regardless of vaccination status, those attending are asked to wear a facial covering while inside the church.

Interment with Rite of Committal will be offered at St. Columban’s Cemetery in Arlington, Vt., in the spring. Memorial contributions in Deacon Keough’s name can be made to Transfiguration Parish, 50 Hillview Drive, Troy, N.Y., 12182.