02 Dec 2025 Person of the Month: Keith L. Zackery

When Coach Zackery was honored with the 14th annual Steve Willbanks Award in October, he was awarded paintings by Emily Moll.   Zackery is holding a painting she created of his granddaughters, Xyon and Zoe’. 

The canvas which sits on the basketball court is of Zackery on his first day of professional development earlier this year.

Coach is talking free throws with Corey Clemons in the painting to his left.  Clemmons was a Morrilton junior tragically killed in a car accident last January, along with his mother and sister. The painting hangs in Zackery’s dining room. 

HOMETOWN:I grew up in southern Arkansas, in a small, tight-knit community outside Rosston (Nevada County). I went to school at Oak Grove High School until my senior year. I was part of the first graduating class from Nevada High School after several schools consolidated.

FAMILY: I am married to Mechele Zackery of Foreman (Little River County). We have a blended family of six children: Deveon Zackery (wife Krysti; daughters Xyon and Zoe’); Cymone Zackery; Shamia Wright, (son Kelan); Jaden Jackson; Chave Zackery; and Johnna Brockman.

EDUCATION: I have a Bachelor of Business Administration, and a Master of Arts in Education, both from Southern Arkansas University.

WORK: Morrilton Junior High School Dean of Students and Morrilton High School Boys Basketball Coach.

AWARDS: Seven conference championships; two conference runner-ups; one district tournament championship; four district tournament runner-ups; one regional championship; and two regional runner-ups. Other honors include: The Arkansas Activities Association West All-Star Coach, 2018; Morrilton Junior High School Teacher of the Year 2018; five-time Conference Coach of the Year; Arkansas Basketball Coaches Association (ArBCA) 4A-Boys Coach of the Year; ArBCA Overall Coach of the Year; Arkansas High School Sports/National Federation of State High School Associations Coach of the Year.

Most recently, I was honored with the 14th Annual Steve Willbanks Award. It is presented annually by Community Service, Inc. (CSI) to honor Arkansans who make a lasting impact on the lives of youth.

WHAT DID THAT HONOR MEAN TO YOU:  First and foremost, I’m just grateful God saw me worthy to even be in that situation. I can only hope, with my flawed self, to impact the lives of the youth I encounter in a way that would honor Him. The recognition signifies validation of the hard work and effort I’ve invested into our youth. Being one of the recipients of this distinguished honor also inspires me to continue my work. Someone has clearly recognized my efforts, reminding me of the importance of community engagement and serving as a role model for our youth. I am definitely thankful, blessed, honored and grateful to be thought of in such a way.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Our basketball team tries to be active with various community services events. We try to visit the local nursing home, work with the Rise Above Alcohol and Drugs (RAAD) program and also with the younger kids in the schools. I was recently selected to serve as a board member for Literacy Action of Central Arkansas. I attend Oak Hill Bible Church in Conway.

HOBBIES: I’m simple and routine. I spend time with my family and kids  (especially the grandkids), watch college basketball, go to my favorite department stores and the local gym. I read about faith, grit, growth and leadership.