Keith Allen Batsell, 62, of Mexico, passed away Monday, Dec. 21, 2020, at his home.
A private memorial service will be held at a later date.
Keith Allen Batsell, better known as “Chef” was born in Paris, Mo. on June 23, 1958, to George Allen and Addie Henrietta (Beauchamp) Batsell.
Keith attended Garfield Elementary School and graduated from Mexico High School in 1977. As a lifelong football lover, he played for the Mexico Bulldogs and college teams, all the while watching his beloved New Orleans Saints.
Keith was a devoted man of God and a compassionate chef. He loved to cook for others. He was a larger-than-life man who never knew a stranger and always took time to stop, sit and talk. Keith was happiest when he was cooking meals for others. He was executive chef at Adamos Italian Restaurant in St. Louis and for the past eight years, he was the chef at Missouri Military Academy, where he enjoyed cooking meals for the cadets. He also contributed by overseeing the cadets at the canteen in the evening and driving the sports teams to their games.
Keith was preceded in death by his parents, George and Addie Batsell; and daughter, Nicolle Assunta Blacketer.
Mr. Batsell is survived at the home by his better-half of more than 18 years, Ronda Hall; his three children, Addie Elizabeth, Emmie Lue and Isaiah Bryant Batsell; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
The family requests memorial donations be made to Berean Christian Church or Missouri Military Academy. Memorials may be sent in care of Arnold Funeral Home, 425 S. Jefferson, Mexico, MO 65265.
Online condolences may be left at www.arnoldfh.com.
