Keat Ban Yeoh's Obituary
The Rev. Dr. Keat Ban Yeoh (1940–2026) was born in Penang, Malaysia. From an early age, his life was grounded in faith, discipline, and a deep sense of calling. After attending the Methodist Boys School, he studied at Trinity College in Singapore before he and his wife, Jenni, moved their young family to the United States to pursue graduate studies and expand his ministry. He earned his Doctorate at Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas — a step of faith that would lead to a lifetime of service.
He began his pastoral ministry serving churches in Tioga, Gunter, and Collinsville, Texas. An opportunity came with the Pacific Northwest United Methodist Conference to move to the beautiful PNW where he would spend the next 40+ years serving churches in Washington State at McCleary, Satsop, and Summit Lake before moving to Summit United Methodist Church in Tacoma. In 1988, Keat was appointed as District Superintendent of the Walla Walla District. After completing his term, he returned to pastoral ministry at Sand Point in Seattle, Audubon Park in Spokane, concluding his career at Kent UMC in Kent.
Wherever they served, Keat and Jenni became anchors in their communities, offering steady leadership, thoughtful guidance, and a pastoral presence that brought comfort and hope to many. For 57 years, they shared both life and ministry, building a home grounded in faith, partnership, and devotion to family and community. Though his calling led him across continents, his purpose remained constant: to faithfully shepherd others and to live with integrity, humility, and grace.
Outside of the church, Keat enjoyed badminton, swimming, and golf, cherishing time spent with family and friends. He loved watching football, particularly the SMU Mustangs and the Dallas Cowboys, as well as following Tiger Woods and the Seattle Mariners.
Keat passed away peacefully with Jenni at his side. He is survived by his beloved wife; his children Jo-Jo, James, and John; son-in-law Marc Brockman; daughter-in-law Amanda Yeoh; and grandchildren Mikayla Yeoh, Coral Brockman, and Colten Brockman.
A celebration of life will take place at Kent United Methodist Church on Saturday, March 21st at 2pm.
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