Keith, or Keesie, also known as “Woods,” was a proud Hoopa Valley Tribal member, an Army veteran, and most important to note is that he was a devout family man. Woods was drafted into the Army out of high school. Upon his return home, he served his tribe as a Tribal Councilman for four years, and served on numerous boards, including the Hoopa Public Utilities Board. He also worked for the Lucky Bear Casino as a security guard. He also sponsored many youth sports activities in the Hoopa area. Woods was an avid sports fan, notably remembered for his die-hard devotion to the Golden State Warriors, and his beloved Raiders team. He also proudly honored his tribal heritage, known to support dance camps with homemade dishes, and he was a traditional regalia caretaker as well. He often hosted gatherings, and utilized his Army founded cooking skills to help prepare meals for many large family dinners. He kept in daily contact with his siblings, calling each of them like clockwork, nearly every day. He was generous and doted on his nieces and nephews; he was known to be that Uncle who always remembered to send thoughtful gifts for birthdays and special occasions. His love for his family was exceptional.

Keith is survived by his siblings and their families: Alex Pratt; Julie McKinnon; Valerie Harvey; Sonja Baldy; Lyle Baldy, Sr.; Kathleen Dean; Darcy Miller; and Lulu Baldy; Carole Nixon-Baldy and Carol Courtney survive him as well. Keith is also survived by Brian Billings, Sr., and Ruby Billings-Mularky, and their families. Brian and Ruby were dear to him, as they were considered to be his children at heart.

He is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Maynard and Nellie (Moon) Baldy, maternal grandparents Martin and Lula (Todi) Gardner; his parents, Newton Baldy Sr. and Nancy Gardner-Baldy; siblings Nancy Baldy, Kenny Baldy, Newton Baldy Jr., Clarence Baldy, Elizabeth “Dolly” Marshall; Allen “Cash” Davis, Edgar Norton, and Mary Doolittle; and his life companion, Gloria Billings.

Pallbearers will be Keith’s nephews, in no order including Frank Richards, Lare Toss McKinnon, John Robbins Jr, Rowdy and Ronnie Robbins, Filmore Harvey; Lance Marshall Sr, Kevin and Bautisto “Cheetos” Pacheco, Andrew “AJ” Pratt; Lyle Baldy Jr, Leroy Baldy and Derek Schuchman-Baldy; Floyd “Cowboy” Billings III; Isaac and Bruce Bussell, and Ryon Markussen, as well as great nephews too numerous to list. Honorary Pallbearers include Alex Pratt, Kenneth Doolittle, Vernon “Sonny” Pratt; Tom Van Bergen; Clyde Moon; Oiler, Sylvester, Douglas, and Freddie Brown; Benny Spencer; Lyle “Custer” Jackson; Ed Masten; Tommy Masten; Norvin “Jude” Hostler; Tyson Dempewolf, Jody Jackson; Kim Conrad; Everett Colegrove Sr.; Everett “Muss” Colegrove; Oscar “Tyke” Billings; Richard “Rick” Billings; and Brian Billings, Sr. Please understand that Woods had many good friends, too plentiful to remember to list. We extend apologies for omitting anyone but know that you are appreciated for the friendship that you shared with our loved one.

The Baldy family wishes to extend thanks to his care team, including K’ima:w Medical Center’s Dr. Eva Smith; Nena Macias; Heather Mace and the rest of the Outreach Staff; VA Hospital in San Francisco and his at-home providers Rita Foakes, Vi Long, and niece Rita Doolittle; and niece Verna Pratt for diligently driving him to the coast and back, for the past extended months.

Keith was a friendly and social man. He was known for his humor, especially to be quick with a quip, his political and general opinions, his good will, and overall original personality. He will be deeply missed by many friends and especially missed within his family. A wake will be observed on Sunday, December 17, 2023 at his home on Telescope Road, beginning at 7 p.m. Funeral service will be held at the Neighborhood Facilities on December 18, 2023, at 11 a.m. Burial will take place at the Hoopa tribal cemetery with military honors; and a potluck gathering will follow at the American Legion Hall.

Arrangements are under the care of Paul’s Chapel in Arcata. If you wish to give flowers please order no later than Friday December 15, 2023.

The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Keith Baldy’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.