Donald Keith Hartman

Donald Keith Hartman, 67, of Forest, Virginia, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, June 28, 2026. Keith lived a life overflowing with love, faith, and quiet strength. He walked closely with Jesus, and anyone who knew him could feel that steady, gentle spirit in everything he did. He was the kind of man who made you feel comfortable just by being in the room. 

Keith poured his heart into New London House, the family steakhouse he built with dedication, pride, and a deep sense of purpose. It wasn't just where he worked, it was where he loved. Every handshake, every smile, and every plate he served reflected a genuine part of Keith’s heart. Keith never met a stranger. He welcomed people the way most welcome family, offering warmth, encouragement, and a place to belong. He also knew that New London House was successful because of the people who stood beside him. Keith relied heavily on his crew of Servers and Cooks, valuing their hard work, loyalty, and friendship. He saw them not simply as employees, but as family, and he was deeply grateful for all they contributed. 

Keith's faith guided him while his compassion defined him. In the AA community, Keith became a lighthouse for so many who were searching for recovery. He listened with his whole heart, believed in people when they couldn’t believe in themselves, and offered hope in Christ without hesitation. The lives he touched there are countless, and his impact will ripple forward for generations. 

Keith’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his loving wife Sandi, who was his partner in every sense of the word; his children, Dustin Hartman, Kassie Hartman, and Bobby Hartman. He was a proud grandfather to his grandbabies, Braylee, Gracee, Elijah, Paxton, Ryker, Paislee, Arya, Judah, Skylar, and Maddie. His grandchildren were the light of his life, each one held a special place in his heart, carrying a piece of his spirit forward.

 Keith is preceded in death by his son Bobby Lee, his mother Shirley, his father Bobby Gene, his brother Wayne and his best friend Terry Brooks. Knowing Keith is reunited with them brings comfort to those who continue to love him. The thought of him being welcomed home, Bobby running to him, his momma holding him, and Terry laughing beside him is a picture of peace that softens the ache of losing him.

 Keith will be remembered for his faith, generosity, humor, and the way he loved people without condition. He showed his love through action, service, kindness, and the way he made everyone feel. His legacy lives on in his family, New London House, and in every life he touched with his open heart. 

A celebration of Keith’s life will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 1:00 in the afternoon at Tree of Life Church on Greenview Drive in Lynchburg. Family will receive friends at their residence.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to AA organization or a Christian based church of your choosing honoring Keith’s lifelong commitment to his faith, recovery, and community.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg is assisting the family.