Rev. Robert Francis Keffer, lovingly known as "Father Bob," passed away on July 27, 2026, in Herndon, Virginia, at the age of 83. Born on August 14, 1942, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Raphael J. Keffer and Clara E. (Fefolt) Keffer, Father Bob dedicated his life to faith, service, and community.

From an early age, Father Bob felt a calling to serve God and others. At just 14 years old, he entered St. Charles College Seminary in Catonsville, Maryland, a minor seminary where he began his journey toward priesthood. He continued his studies at St. Mary’s Seminary in Roland Park, Maryland, preparing for a lifetime of devotion as a Catholic priest. On May 18, 1968, he was ordained for the Catholic Archdiocese of Washington, D.C., at St. Matthew’s Cathedral in Washington. He continued his education at Loyola College in Baltimore, Maryland where he received an MS degree in Pastoral Counseling in 1995.

Father Bob’s ministry spanned decades and touched countless lives across the Washington area. His first assignment was at the Shrine of the Sacred Heart. He later served as Chaplain for the Newman Centers at both the University of Maryland and George Washington University—roles that allowed him to guide and inspire young adults during pivotal moments in their lives. His final parish assignment was at the Church of the Resurrection in Burtonsville, Maryland.

Even after retiring to Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia, Father Bob continued his ministry with unwavering dedication. He served at St. James Catholic Church in Charles Town, St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Harpers Ferry, and St. Agnes Catholic Church in Shepherdstown. As a parishioner at St. Agnes, he fully immersed himself in the community by joining the choir and participating in small groups during Lent.

Father Bob had an extraordinary ability to create community wherever he went. Those he met through his parishes and ministries became not only his friends but also an extended family who cherished his kindness and generosity.

Beyond his priestly duties, Father Bob found joy in hobbies that reflected his love for people and nature. A talented cook with a generous spirit, he delighted in sharing meals with others—a simple yet profound way of bringing people together. His garden was another source of joy; he cultivated fruits, vegetables, flowers, and plants that he shared freely with those around him. His knitting and quilting projects were all inspired by love, as the many recipients of these gifts will tell you.

Father Bob also cherished his small log cabin home in West Virginia—a place of comfort where he welcomed friends and family alike. Throughout his life, he was deeply devoted to his companion dogs; each held a special place in his heart. In recent years, Zelda—his beloved “sweets”—was a constant source of comfort and companionship.

Father Bob is survived by his brothers Charles J. Keffer (and wife Barbara) and Richard T. Keffer (and wife Mary Rose), as well as his sister Elizabeth Keffer Platt. He also leaves behind 14 nieces and nephews who adored him and a multitude of cousins who were part of his extended family network.

He was predeceased by his parents Raphael J. Keffer and Clara E. (Fefolt) Keffer but carried their love and values throughout his life.

Father Bob’s legacy is one of kindness, love, faithfulness to God’s work, and an unwavering commitment to helping others find spiritual guidance and community connection.

May Rev. Robert Francis "Father Bob" Keffer's memory be a blessing to all who knew him—his family members who loved him dearly; the countless individuals whose lives were enriched by his ministry; and every person who experienced the warmth of his hospitality or the beauty of his garden's bounty.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord; may perpetual light shine upon him always.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on August 10, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Church of the Resurrection 3319 Greencastle Rd.

The family will receive friends on August 9, 2026, from 6:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M., with a Vigil starting at 7:00 P.M., at the church. They will also receive friends on August 10, 2026, one hour prior to the funeral Mass, at the church.

There will be a repast directly after the Mass at the Rev. Robert F. Keffer Parish Life Center.

The inurnment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Silver Spring, MD will follow the repast.

A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date at St. Agnes Church in Shepherdstown, West Virginia.

Memorial contributions may be made in Robert Keffer’s remembrance to https://k-9lifesavers.org/donate or by check to K-9 Lifesavers, 259 Thorny Point RD, Stafford VA 22554. Zelda was found through this organization.