The Embry-Riddle Athletics Department has announced the passing of Chad Keller, longtime assistant coach for the Embry-Riddle men's basketball program.
Keller joined the Embry-Riddle coaching staff in August of 2004, and in over two decades with the Eagles, he played an instrumental role in building one of the most respected basketball programs in the country. During his tenure, the Eagles posted a 453-187 record, captured six conference tournament championships, four regular season titles, and made 12 national tournament appearances, including a trip to the NCAA Sweet 16 in 2022.
"It is such a sad, sad day with the significant loss of Coach Chad Keller," Men's Basketball Head Coach Steve Ridder said. "Chad was truly the standard of what our University, Athletic Program and our men's basketball program aspire to do every day...impact young people's lives!"
Ridder further emphasized Keller's character and influence: "Chad was extremely passionate and relentless. He was a hard worker, a dedicated professional and a true difference maker! He thrived on building REAL relationships; he loved and cared so much for people, especially his amazing family, our players, his friends, and colleagues. He was an inspiration to all of us every day in the strength of his faith and how he modeled humility and servant leadership. I have so much love, respect and gratitude for the amazing 20 plus years we were able to be around each other and create something very special at ERAU."
A Storied Career Before Embry-Riddle
Before arriving at Embry-Riddle, Keller was one of the top high school coaches in the state of Florida, most notably at Leesburg High School, where he led the Yellow Jackets to six consecutive Sweet 16 appearances and a trip to the State Final Four in 2002.
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A proud alumnus of Flagler College, Keller was a decorated point guard and team captain, ranking among the program's all-time leaders in assists. He also enjoyed a storied high school career and in May 2025, he was inducted in the St.
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Impact Beyond the Basketball Court
Keller also inspired and motivated others away from the basketball court. He was often asked to speak at a variety of functions and made frequent visits to local elementary and middle schools.
A member of the National Association of Basketball Coaches, Keller was a relationship builder and provided mentorship to several individuals who have gone into the coaching profession.
"Coach Keller dedicated over two decades to Embry-Riddle and built a lasting legacy that reaches far beyond our men's basketball team" Embry-Riddle Director of Athletics Rachel Burleson shared.
A Devoted Family Man
Beyond the sidelines, Keller was a devoted family man and a respected community leader.
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Remembering Bobby Carson Riddle
Bobby Carson Riddle, age 78 of Maryville, passed away Wednesday, October 08, 2025, at the family home. Bobby was retired from Sears and Home Depot after many years of dedicated service and was a member of Hillcrest Baptist Church for 44 years. He was saved at Victory Baptist Church and served faithfully as a deacon for many years at Hillcrest Baptist Church. Bobby was a veteran of the US Army from 1966 until 1968 serving in Vietnam. He always had a smile on his face and loved spending time with his family.
Proceeded in death by his parents, Charles A. Riddle and Anna Mae Riddle Beaty; son, Shawn Riddle and father and mother-in-law, Stanley and Ruth Garner.
Survived by his wife of 59 years, Freda Garner Riddle; son and daughter-in-law, Chad and Bethany Riddle; brother and sister-in-law, Eddie and Nancy Riddle; sister and brother-in-law, Shirley and Robert Newman; sister and late brother-in-law, Pat and the late Steve Glaspie; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Kyle and Nancy Garner; grandchildren, Chelsea (Chris) Pereda, Brentley (Ashton) Riddle, and Ansley Riddle; great-grandchildren, Chloe and Carly Pereda; A host of many nieces and nephews who also loved him so.
The family will receive friends on Monday, October 13, 2025 from 5:00 until 7:00 PM with the funeral service to follow at 7:00 PM with Rev. Steve Hodges and Rev. Charles Murrell officiating. Family and friends will assemble at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at the Grandview Cemetery Pavilion for the interment service and burial. Memorial donations may be made in Bobby’s name to St.
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