Wytheville mourns Candace Keith, 37, killed in an Interstate 77 crash; remembered for joyful spirit, family devotion, and community impact.
Candace MaKenze Keith, 37, of Wytheville, Virginia, tragically passed away on June 28, 2026, following a crash on Interstate 77 in Carroll County.
Her sudden death has left her family, friends, and the wider Wytheville community mourning the loss of a woman remembered for her joyful personality, her love of cooking and baking, and the strong bonds she shared with those closest to her.
Born on February 22, 1989, in Wise County, Virginia, Candace grew up with a passion for family and community. She was known for her vibrant spirit and her ability to bring people together, often through her culinary talents.
Friends and relatives recall her as someone who lived life to the fullest, never hesitating to share her warmth and kindness with those around her.
Candace’s family was central to her life. She is survived by her mother, Cindy Marie Gilbert of Abingdon, and her brother, Daniel Wayne Farmer of Abingdon. She also had a father figure in Gary Balthis of Florida, who played an important role in her life.
She was preceded in death by her father, Robert Morelock, Jr., whose memory remained a guiding influence.
Candace also leaves behind extended family, including aunts, uncles, cousins, and her best friend, Whitley Tiller of Texas, who was a constant source of support and companionship.
Former in‑laws Gary and Lenita Keith of Pound, Virginia, also remain part of her close circle of loved ones, reflecting the wide reach of her relationships and the many people who cherished her.
Her passing has deeply affected the Wytheville community, where she was known for her kindness, generosity, and ability to brighten the lives of others. Friends describe her as someone who always puts others first, offering encouragement and support whenever it is needed.
The sudden loss has left a void that will be felt for years to come, as her presence was a source of comfort and joy to many. Candace’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and resilience.
She will be remembered not only for her talents in the kitchen but also for her ability to uplift those around her.
In accordance with her wishes, Candace’s cremated remains will be scattered in Big Sur, California, a place symbolic of peace and beauty. This final tribute reflects her love of nature and her desire to be remembered in a setting that embodies serenity.
The choice of Big Sur as her resting place speaks to her appreciation for places of tranquility and her wish to leave behind a memory that resonates with calm and beauty.
Candace’s life was a testament to living fully and embracing each moment. She enjoyed cooking and baking, often sharing her creations with family and friends, and she found joy in the simple pleasures of life.
Her sudden passing is a profound loss, but her memory will endure in the hearts of those who knew her. Her family and friends will honor her by carrying forward the joy she brought into their lives, remembering her not only in moments of grief but also in celebrations of the love and laughter she shared.
The Wytheville community continues to mourn her loss, but her story is one that will be told with fondness and gratitude. Candace Keith’s legacy is defined by her devotion to family, her generosity toward friends, and her ability to make every gathering brighter.
Though her life was cut short, her impact will remain, and she will be remembered as a woman who lived with passion, kindness, and an enduring love for those around her.
