Keith Beasley-Topliffe

The Rev. Keith Beasley-Topliffe, a retired United Methodist pastor of nearly 40 years, died of Alzheimer’s Disease on October 4, 2025 at The Arbors of Bedford, NH, where he resided. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, The Rev. Carola Beasley-Topliffe of Manchester, NH, his daughter, Laura Beasley-Topliffe of Salem MA, and his sister, Karen Beasley of Springfield VA, as well as sisters and brothers-in-law and their children and grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents, the late Marion and Neeva (Sanders) Beasley.

Keith grew up in Arlington VA, where among many other interests he was involved in Boy Scouting, becoming an Eagle Scout. He graduated from Cornell University (BA in Computer Science ’72), Boston University School of Theology (M.Div. ’78) and Duquesne University (MA in Spiritual Formation ‘94). A lifelong (United) Methodist, he served numerous parishes in the Wyoming, Central Pennsylvania, and Susquehanna Conferences, retiring in 2016. In retirement, he also served at Raymond, NH UMC during COVID. He wrote and edited for Upper Room Books and had a book Surrendering to God published by Paraclete Press. A computer science major in college, he continued to enjoy developments in computers and smartphones and liked playing word games and puzzles. Keith liked all kinds of music, played the guitar, sang in church choirs, and was a member of the Barbershop Harmony Society for over 40 years. He was a voracious reader and enjoyed teaching in various settings. He was glad to have the opportunity to travel and was able to visit several US states, plus trips to Canada, Israel, Egypt, Turkey, the UK, and India. On vacation trips he especially liked walking trails, scenic cruises and train rides, and roller coasters. In retirement he and Carola enjoyed hiking, especially along rail trails, and exploring the New England area.

Keith’s life will be celebrated at a memorial service to be held on Monday, October 13, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, 961 Valley Street, Manchester, NH 03103. Light refreshments will follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to First UMC Manchester, The United Methodist Committee on Relief (giveumcmission.org), or the Barbershop Harmony Society (barbershop.org). A private burial of ashes will occur at a later date. Assisting the family with arrangements is the Cremation Society of NH, Manchester.