Kevin Key

Former Shelby County Criminal Court Clerk, Kevin Key, 61, of Collierville, Tennessee passed away at his home surrounded by his family on Monday, October 24, 2022.

Kevin, the son of the late William R. and Shirley Kolp Key, made Shelby County history by following his father to the same elected office of Criminal Court Clerk. He was a graduate of Bishop Byrne High School and earned his B.A. in Psychology from Memphis State University. Summers spent working with his father taught him values he would use for the rest of his life leading him to his career of public service as Memphis and Shelby County Juvenile Court Director, Shelby County Circuit Court Clerk Office Administrator, Metro Officials Association Administrator, and finally as Criminal Court Clerk.

Kevin's personal life mirrored his professional one. He coached and was very involved with the Shelby Youth Sports program and athletic program for Collierville High School. His devotion to the players was beyond measure and he took great pride in providing counsel to those who needed help with college recruitment and other things needed.

During his term as Criminal Court Clerk, Kevin became life threatening ill and was left without his sight. He would say his battle with the illness had been difficult, but his faith and family were the reason he regained his health. He found comfort in talking with others who were blind and was a source for information on available technology used to assist those without the ability to see. He wanted to others to know the disability did not have to disable.

His accomplishments were many, but he was most proud of his family. He was a beloved son, brother, husband, father and Pappy! His loving heart and devotion to his wife, children and grandchildren were undeniable. He ensured the family had a firm foundation built on serving others. He led by example and the Key legacy will be shared through them.

Kevin leaves behind his wife of 44 years, Kim; his children, Andy Key and Katy Key Borden (Ryan), both of Collierville, Molly Key of Memphis and Ally Key of Dallas, TX; grandchild, Sawyer Borden of Collierville; siblings, Lisa Key of Memphis and Bill Key of Horn Lake, MS; and his mother in-law, Allene Smith of Collierville.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William R. Key and Shirley K. Key, and his father in-law, John Henry Smith.

A visitation will begin at 10 a.m. on Friday, October 28th, 2022, until the service at 12 p.m., both at the Faith Lutheran Church, 507 New Byhalia Road, Collierville, Tennessee. Interment will follow at Forest Hill – South, Memphis, Tennessee.

Arrangements entrusted to Brent Taylor Paul McCarver Funeral Directors www.brenttaylorfuneraldirectors.com