Remembering David Keighley

On September 16, 2025, at the GSCA International Conference in Austin, Texas, our community came together for something truly special: a heartfelt tribute to David Keighley.

The tribute, lovingly emceed by Tammy Barrett, was filled with stories, laughter, and a few tears as friends and colleagues reflected on David’s remarkable life and legacy. We heard from:

Colyn Smyth, IMAX
Rich Gelfond, IMAX
Myles Connolly, 360-Media
Dick Vaughan, DHOP
Diane Carlson, Giant Screen Cinema Consulting
Mike Lutz, Lutz Strategies

And in true Patricia form, Patricia Keighley memorialized David as both her business partner and husband of 55 plus years.

Each speaker shared memories that captured David’s larger-than-life presence—his brilliance, his humor, his high standards, and the way he pushed everyone around him to be better. There were moments of deep emotion, bursts of laughter, and even a little gentle ribbing that David himself would have appreciated.

The event didn’t end in silence or solemnity. It ended the way David would have loved—with dancing! A reminder that joy, energy, and celebration were always part of his world.

So many people loved (and yes, some even feared!) David because he was unforgettable. He demanded the best, gave his all, and left a mark on every person lucky enough to work with or know him.

We invite you to share in this celebration of his life by watching the video from the tribute: