Joseph Keith Wallace was often the life of the party, surrounded by countless friends who valued his selfless nature. Keith had an outstanding work ethic, was a leader throughout his life, and was an accomplished athlete in multiple sports. While helping a friend Keith experienced severe headaches and drifted into a coma. He died a day later at age 25 from a ruptured brain aneurysm. Less than a year before, Keith had registered as a donor. His decision saved four lives through organ donation and healed many others through tissue donation. This genuine, selfless man lived his life helping others. His legacy will now help inspire others to follow his example.

Keith's Story

Joseph Keith Wallace was often the life of the party, surrounded by countless friends. However, he also came armed with an outstanding work ethic and an ability to be a leader on and off the field. His friends considered him a genuine man with many admirable qualities. With his outgoing personality and infectious smile, Keith made numerous friends. Perhaps one of his strongest traits was his selfless nature, as evidenced by his decision to become an organ, eye and tissue donor.

Keith grew up on a golf course in Manning, S.C. His love of golf was fostered by his father's ownership of The Player's Golf Course there. Keith also excelled on the football field, basketball court and golf course for his school's Swamp Cats.

He began playing varsity golf in the sixth grade, accumulating many awards. His hard work culminated in his senior year at Laurence Manning Academy when he sank a putt that won the school's first and only golf state championship. Keith was also named an All-State receiver in football. Keith's remarkable accomplishments were highlighted when he was awarded the school's Dr. Joe H. King 100% Award for success in three sports.

"Keith was the ultimate competitor and an exceptional leader," stated Will Epps, golf coach at Laurence Manning Academy. "He was one of two seniors who helped create a fun, but team-first, environment that allowed us to have success."

After college, Keith returned to Manning to become superintendent at The Player's Course. He pursued other hobbies, including hunting and fishing. On August 1, 2012, while 25-year-old Keith was helping a friend put up a deer stand, he began experiencing significant headaches. He drifted into a coma and died a day later from a ruptured brain aneurysm.

Keith had signed up to be a donor at his local Department of Motor Vehicles less than a year before his death. His liver, heart and kidneys saved four lives, and many more are benefiting from his tissue. Keith lived his life caring for and helping others. Hopefully the many relationships he made will continue his legacy by inspiring others to follow his example.