Mary L. Key

Mary’s Journey

Mary Louise Key, a treasured soul whose life journey began on September 12, 1932, in Town Creek, Alabama, from the union of James E Owens Sr. & Emma Beatrice Abernathy. She completed her earthly pilgrimage on September 6, 2025, in Cleveland, Ohio. She was a beacon of love and faith, whose presence enriched the lives of all who knew her.

After graduation she moved to Cleveland Ohio. Her early years were marked by the warmth of a close-knit family living together with her siblings. Mary’s devotion to her Christian faith was evident from her youth, as she lived out the teachings of Christ in her daily actions and interactions with others.

Mary's professional life was characterized by her diligent and dedicated service. She began her career with the Cleveland Postal Service, where her reliability and commitment to excellence set a standard for her colleagues. Later, she joined and retired from the Navy Finance Center, which later became the Defense Finance Accounting Service (DFAS) rising to the position of retired pay supervisor. Her meticulous work ethic and generous spirit made her a respected figure within her workplace.

Despite her professional accomplishments, Mary's heart was always with her family. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Woodrow H. Key, Sr. her dear siblings Berzenia Mobley, Cora Herron, and James E. (Mariah) Owens Jr, who had all journeyed home before her. The bonds of family ran deep, and Mary's love for her relatives was a testament to her generous and loving nature.

Mary's faith was the cornerstone of her existence. She lived a life that reflected the love of Christ, embracing everyone with open arms and an open heart. Her church community was an extension of her family, and she served it with the same dedication and passion that she gave to every aspect of her life.

Traveling was one of Mary’s greatest pleasures. She saw it as an opportunity to experience God's creation, to meet His people, and to expand her horizons. Her and Woodrow traveled around the world. Enjoying trips to Germany, England, Canada, the Caribbean and the Holy Land to name a few. Each trip was a chapter in her book of memories, filled with stories of adventure and fellowship.

To describe Mary as loving, faith-filled, and generous is to capture only a glimpse of the incredible woman she was. Her spirit of giving knew no bounds, and her faith was as unwavering as it was profound. Her gentle guidance and unconditional love will be dearly missed, yet her legacy will continue to inspire those who were blessed to know her.

Mary's life was a testament to the virtues of kindness, devotion, and responsibility. As she enters the Kingdom of Heaven, we celebrate her life and cherish the memories she leaves behind. Her journey on earth may have ended, but her light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who loved her.

Mary L Key, leaves to mourn her passings son, Alan D. (Gloria deceased)) McClendon Sr, step children Rebecca Key, Woodretta (Moses) Allen, John (Marilyn) Key & Woodrow (Cheryl) Key Jr. grandson, Alan D McClendon Jr. who tirelessly provided daily care for his beloved grandmother and a host of other grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

In the words of Scripture, "Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your master" (Matthew 25:21). Mary Louise Key has indeed entered into that eternal joy, and while we mourn her passing, we also rejoice in the knowledge that she is at peace in the loving embrace of our Lord.

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