As a Main Body volunteer Mr. Keay saw service with the Canterbury Infantry Regiment on Gallopoli during World War I. After the war he worked for a farmers' organisation in South Canterbury. During his term of office as town clerk of Woodville. Mr. Keay saw some difficult days and in spite of the effects of World War II the town saw considerable progress. In Woodville he served extensively in all patriotic activities and held office on the patriotic committee. Among his chief interests was his band activities. He was band-master of the Woodville Salvation Army Band and an active member of the Salvation Army throughout his whole life. Mr. Keay was foundation president of the Rotary Club of Woodville, a president of the Returned Services' Association and a Justice of the Peace. In the Legion of Frontiersmen he became troop leader. He was a past master of Lodge Rauhine, holding Grand Lodge rank. Mr. Keay is survived by his wife, two claughters. Mrs Lloyd, of Foxton, and Mrs. R. Knight, of Hamilton, and one son, Mr. Allan Keay, of Palmerston North.
Memorial Event Ankara 27 April 2013 (pdf) Re-sounding Gallipoli Campaign, High Court of Australia 12th April 2015 (pdf) Songs by Constance Keay and Evelyn Mouton |
David Smith Laing Keay, for many years town clerk at Woodville, died a week ago. Mr. Keay was appointed town clerk in 1927 and retired tbrough ill health in 1948. He was born in Timaru in 1892 and received his education at the Timaru District High School.