Keturah Ivory Pelt

Her Life, His Glory

Keturah Ivory Pelt was born on April 8, 2002 at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, MD to Eric and Wanda Pelt. From the moment she arrived, Keturah was our precious angel on earth, a radiant light to all who met her. On July 21, 2025 Keturah peacefully transitioned into the arms of our Heavenly Father surrounded by her loving family.

Keturah was born with a life-threatening heart condition. At birth, doctors presented her parents with four difficult choices: to have a therapeutic abortion, to do nothing and accept that she would pass shortly after birth, to undergo a series of open-heart surgeries, or to wait for a heart transplant knowing she would not survive. With unwavering faith and courage, her parents chose the path of open-heart surgeries, committing to three stages of complex procedures. Despite numerous close calls and many moments when it seemed she might not survive, God always blessed Keturah with the strength and will to live, showing the doctors that He was on her side and had the final say over her life. God showed favor on Keturah’s life and allowed her to be a living miracle.

At an early age, Keturah gave her life to the Lord. She had a deep love for God and served Him faithfully throughout her life. Keturah was an active member of Highway Word of Faith Family Worship Center, where she found joy in serving and praising God. She joyfully expressed her devotion through dance as a dedicated member of the praise and dance team. On Youth Sunday, she articulately delivered the church announcements. Her faith was evident in all she did—she truly let her light shine wherever she went. Keturah always shared the love of God with others and testified about what God had done in her life. She preached Jesus through the way she lived. Even without knowing others’ beliefs, Keturah faithfully shared about her God, living as a true testament of His love. She was a living sermon. Her life preached louder than words. She never met a stranger and would let anyone she met know she was praying for them, often asking “Are you praying for me?”

Keturah received her education in the Octorara Area School District, where she truly enjoyed attending school. Musically inclined like her father, she was a proud member of the school band and loved playing percussion instruments. In June 2020, Keturah graduated from Octorara High School, a milestone that held extraordinary meaning for her and her parents, who were unsure that her health would allow her to reach that day. Her graduation symbolized not only academic success, but also her remarkable strength in overcoming serious medical challenges that threatened her life. Keturah brought light and joy into the world from the very beginning. She was known for her sweet spirit and gentle nature. Her bright smile warmed the hearts of those around her, and her presence radiated kindness and peace. Despite her medical challenges, Keturah never complained. She carried herself with grace and quiet strength that touched everyone she encountered. Keturah cherished the moments she spent with her family, especially the bond she shared with her parents, Eric and Wanda. Their love, guidance, and presence were her source of strength and joy. She enjoyed music and singing, passions that allowed her to express her heart. Her other hobbies included bowling and painting, which reflected both her playful nature and her creative spirit. Keturah also loved family meals, especially when they included her favorite comfort foods mashed potatoes and macaroni cheese. Whether spending time with loved ones or expressing herself through art, Keturah brought joy and inspiration into the lives of those around her.

Keturah leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories with her parents, Deacon Eric Pelt and Sis. Wanda Pelt; Godsisters Amaryah Loften, Angel James, and JaToya Jenkins; aunt/Godparents Renona and Johnnie Jenkins; aunts Gladys (Vincent) McCall, Sharon (Carlton) Bryson, Canetra English, Marietta English, Lanorah (Robert) Whisenhunt, Sybil (Weston), and adopted aunt Jonikka Loften; uncles Timothy Pelt, Jr., Rodney (Carolyn) Pelt, Reginald Pelt, and adopted uncle Greg Loften; grandfather Timothy Pelt, Sr. (Carrie); grandmothers Lettie English, Carrie Stevens-Pelt, adopted grandmother Mother Carolyn Taylor, and a host of cousins, relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her grandmother Betty Pelt and grandfather Charles English.

While we miss her beyond words, we take comfort in knowing Keturah is ultimately healed and whole, resting in the arms of Jesus. It brings us peace knowing that she has completed her assignment here on earth. Keturah’s life will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will live forever in our hearts. We love her forever and always…Mom and Dad ♥

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:

Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love His appearing.

II Timothy 4:7-8