The life of our forever warrior

Keaton Miller

Keaton Charles Miller was born on November 23, 2007, in Flint, Michigan, and later made his home in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. From the beginning, Keaton embodied the quiet strength and sincerity of someone set apart—someone whose life would leave a lasting impact. He was a beloved son, brother, friend, student, and teammate. But most of all, Keaton was a young man of profound faith.

Keaton attended Lee’s Summit West High School, where he was not only a dedicated student but also a standout athlete on the wrestling team. In a feat nothing short of miraculous, Keaton earned the title of Kansas City 2nd Team All-Conference Wrestler—all while unknowingly fighting leukemia, with cancer infiltrating 93% of his blood cells and central nervous system (spinal fluid). His body was under siege, but his mind, heart, and will to fight remained undaunted.

In April 2024, Keaton was diagnosed with B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. His fight began suddenly and intensely, leading to an emergency port placement and immediate chemotherapy. For six grueling months, Keaton endured treatment without achieving remission. It wasn’t until doctors turned to CAR T-Cell Therapy—a groundbreaking cancer treatment—that hope returned. In this therapy, his own T-cells were harvested, genetically modified in a lab, and reintroduced to target the cancer. This became our saving grace, and by the end of October 2024, we finally received the life-changing news that Keaton was in remission.

For the next two months, life felt closer to normal again. Keaton’s strength and spirit began to shine through—he earned his driver’s license, was elected as his Junior class’s homecoming representative, and joyfully celebrated his 17th birthday, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. But even with these victories, his journey wasn’t over.

Because of a rare and complex DNA cancer mutation (Ph-like JAK2 Rearrangement), sustaining remission required a bone marrow transplant. In an incredible blessing, Keaton’s second-oldest sister, Kirah, was found to be his stem cell donor.

In order to receive the transplant Keaton underwent three rounds of cranial irradiation AND six rounds of total body irradiation at Kansas University Hospital. On January 17th, Kirah’s cells were introduced into Keaton’s body. Over time the effects of his treatment became evident. Because of the amount of radiation and chemotherapy treatment Keaton received, his lungs could no longer function properly to convert oxygen into the bloodstream.

This unforeseen complication would ultimately take his life. He passed away surrounded by the love of family, his medical team, and many classmates, having fought the good fight with every fiber of his being.

Throughout 13 months of relentless treatment, Keaton displayed unshakable faith and character. He leaned on Scripture and prayer. He prayed over his nurses and joked with his doctors. He lifted the spirits of friends, family, and even strangers who were watching his journey unfold. Keaton often said, “Keep the faith.” and he meant it.

Keaton dreamed of a future where he would study theology, preach the gospel, and bring others into a deeper relationship with Christ. His heart burned to serve—to teach, encourage, and shine light where there was darkness.

Though his time on earth was tragically short, Keaton’s legacy lives on. His faith, kindness, courage, and humility continue to inspire those who knew him—and now, through the Keaton Miller Scholarship Fund, his dream lives on.

This fund exists so that other young people who share Keaton’s calling can pursue ministry, theological studies, and faith-based leadership with support and encouragement. Through their lives and service, Keaton’s mission continues.

Forever loved and in our hearts - until we meet again, Charlie <3