Sylvia Sango Keaton

Sylvia Sango Keaton, born on June 5, 1937, in Aiken, SC, passed away peacefully at Piedmont Augusta Hospital Sunday, June 21, 2026, following a brief illness. Her life, spanning eighty-nine years, was marked by quiet strength and an enduring love for her family and friends.

Born in Aiken, Sylvia was a cherished daughter of the late Andrew and Christine Marijannis Sango. Aiken held a special place in her heart, where she built a life filled with love, laughter, and warm memories.

Sylvia loved her family and spending time with her grandchildren. She was well known for her fondness for shopping. She enjoyed spending time at the beach. She was a longtime member of Millbrook Baptist Church.

She was the devoted wife of the late Kenneth Eugene Keaton, whose memory she held close after his passing. Together, they nurtured a loving family that includes their son, Kenneth Keaton, Jr., and daughters Christine Deese (Perry) and Lee Asbill (Glenn). Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Joshua Keaton (Jessica), Darrell Keaton (Amy), Derek Deese (Stephanie), Scott Deese (Caitlin Hunt), Zachary Deese, Brant Deese (Kayla), and Lindsey Busbee. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren: Skylar Keaton, Linken Keaton, Bryce Busbee, Dawson Deese, Sawyer Deese, and Collins Deese.

She was preceded in death by a great-grandson, Keaton Deese, a daughter-in-law, Paula Keaton, her brother, George Sanko and sister, Irene Sango Rangos.

The family will receive friends, Thursday morning, June 25th beginning at 10 o’clock at Shellhouse-Rivers Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 11 o’clock at the funeral home with The Rev. Bill Howard III officiating. Interment will be in Bethany Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Heart Association (heart.org) .

SHELLHOUSE – RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, 715 EAST PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC