Dr. Larry Keith Hildebrand

Dr. Larry Keith Hildebrand, a native of Oak Hill, West Virginia, passed away at his home in Gallatin, Tennessee on June 18th, one day shy of his 71st birthday, after battling through corticobasal degeneration, an atypical Parkinson syndrome. He was a devoted husband, proud father of five daughters, and cherished grandfather.

Keith’s journey in dentistry began when he became the first male dental hygienist in the state of West Virginia, earning his degree from the West Virginia University Institute of Technology. In 1976, he was admitted to the WVU School of Dentistry DDS program, graduating in 1980. Driven by a passion for his field, he completed a post-doctorate degree in endodontics from WVU in 1984.

Following his advanced training, Keith opened a private practice in Huntington, WV where he provided expert care to patients for many years. In 2014, he joined the faculty of the WVU School of Dentistry, serving as acting chairperson of the Endodontics Department and director of the pre-doctoral endodontics program.

He was deeply involved in organized dentistry throughout his career, serving as president of the Huntington Dental Society, the Monongahela Valley Dental Society, and the West Virginia Dental Association, where he was installed as president in 2005. Additionally, he held leadership roles as president of the West Virginia Society of Endodontists and section chairperson of the West Virginia American College of Dentists. He was a fellow of the American College of Dentists, the International College of Dentists, and the Pierre Fauchard Academy. In 2020, he received the WVU School of Dentistry Distinguished Alumnus Award.

Though he was proud of his professional accomplishments, he was most proud of his wife of 43 years, Anne, and the life they built together. Keith showed up for his family, whether it be at old Huntington High athletic booster meetings for Megan’s cheerleading, or the center circle to referee a soccer match. His unwavering support could not be questioned. He spent many years as a mainstay at the soccer fields in Huntington. Though he did not grow up a soccer player, he learned the rules so he could coach his girls. He managed their teams and even became a certified referee trainer. His impact on the sport stretched far beyond his own daughters. He spent many weekends driving near and far for travel soccer tournaments, always finding the best new restaurant to try at each destination. Keith loved those soccer weekends and the memories and friendships that were made.

After his faculty appointment, Anne and he enjoyed hosting poker night for the dental residents and attending WVU sporting events both home and away. He loved cheering on his Mountaineers and was the first in the family to cue “Country Roads” after a victory. He enjoyed playing golf with his brothers and friends, spending time at the beach with his family, and cherished moments with his girls. With the arrival of his grandsons, he embraced the joy of being around his boys as well, supporting all that they did.

Keith is survived by his wife, Anne, and five daughters Megan Buell (Chris), Ashley, Kelly Roach (Tyler), Kacey and Allie (Danny Hoff). He leaves behind grandsons Warner and Wesley Buell, Stephen, Henry, and Isaac Roach, and granddaughter Cathy Hildebrand. Additionally, he is survived by his brothers Gerry (Margaret) and Terry (Karen) and many beloved nieces and nephews.

His dedication to both his profession and family leaves a lasting legacy of love, leadership, and care. He will be remembered by all for his kindness, good humor, and quiet strength. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A visitation will be held on July 12th at 10am in the vestibule of Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Huntington, West Virginia. This will be followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11am, in the sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima Parish.

The family wishes to thank nurse Lisa Pena for her special care of Keith over the last 18 months. Memorial donations may be made in his honor to Hendersonville/Aveanna Hospice, 131 Saundersville Rd 340 B, Hendersonville, TN 37075.