Anna M. Keck

Anna M. Keck (nee Pastore), 85, was a loving and generous woman whose life was defined by her love for family, friends, and the community of Tacony she called home.

Anna was the devoted wife of the late William L. Keck and the cherished mother of the late Deborah M. Keck. She is survived by her beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends - all of whom will miss her greatly. 

Adopted by Italian immigrant parents in Swampoodle, Anna carried with her the values of family, hard work, generosity, and community throughout her entire life. She attended St. Mary’s of the Eternal and St. Hubert’s High School and was a longtime parishioner of Our Lady of Consolation Roman Catholic Church.

Anna was, in every sense, a woman who gave herself to others. She loved Tacony and worked tirelessly to make it a better place. She was a founding member of the Tacony Civic Association, served on the Board of the Tacony Historical Society, was a longtime committee woman, and served as Vice President of the Democratic Ward. She didn't simply live in her community—she was part of its heart.

But for those who loved Anna, her greatest legacy wasn't found in titles. It was found around her kitchen table.

She loved being a homemaker, cooking and feeding people was one of the ways she showed her love. Her gravy, meatballs, and escarole soup were more than just family favorites—they were a taste of Anna herself. They brought everyone together, filled her home with wonderful smells, and became part of the memories her family will carry with them forever. There was always room at Anna’s table and enough food for one more.

She also took great pride in her garden and creating a peaceful space. Her home was a place of warmth, laughs, conversation, and love. If you walked through Anna’s door, you were welcomed, fed, and made part of the family.

She especially treasured traveling with children and sharing the wonder of the world with them. Sharing a meal, sitting around the table, talking, laughing, and crying together were among the greatest gifts she gave her family.

Anna packed so much into her life. She was a strong, Nonconformist and free spirited Italian woman who loved deeply and gave generously.

Alzheimer’s disease took away so much of her ability, but it could never take away the love she had given to her family, the mark she left on Tacony, or the memories held by the people whose lives she touched.

Her recipes may be recreated, but no one will ever make them quite the same way. In her home there was always a place for you.

Services for Anna will be announced in the near future. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be sent to the Jack Costello Boxing Club, 6846 Torresdale Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19135.