Darrell Key

Darrell Key

Darrell Wilson Key, 68, of Mexico Beach, Florida passed away on Monday, March 20,2023. He was preceded in death by his parents Woodrow and Frances Key, siblings Diane Key and Devin Key and children Jacob and Jessica Key. Darrell was born on December 5, 1954, in Atlanta, Georgia. In 1957 Mr. and Mrs. Key moved the family; Darrell, older sister Debbie and younger brother Darwin to Orlando, Florida where Mr. Key was employed by Cape Canaveral (now Kennedy Space Center). The family grew over the next years adding on brothers and sisters Dwain, Donna, Detra, Diane and Devin. Long Florida summer days are fondly remembered being spent outside riding bikes, swimming, fishing, cooking out and enjoying their rambunctious family. In 1969 the family moved back to Metro Atlanta. Darrell graduated from Lithonia High School in 1972. He attended UGA where he played freshman football then spent several years modeling and acting in Atlanta and New York before returning to help in the family construction business. Darrell was creative, adventurous and independent. His big personality coupled with fierce talent drew him to guide for pheasant in the mid-west, fly fishing in the North Georgia mountains and finally saltwater fishing in Florida. He spent his life living in the moment and directing his unique abilities toward many endeavors including hiking and scuba diving, sculpting, painting and cooking. Darrell eventually returned to Florida where he met his wife LeCretia and settled into a rewarding and productive life as a Fishing Captain in the waters of the Gulf. After Hurricane Michael, Darrell served on the Mexico Beach City Council and most recently owned and operated Mexico Beach Pavers. He enjoyed entertaining friends in their outdoor kitchen and was a proud uncle to his nieces and nephews. Darrell partnered with Mexico Beach Artificial Reef Association to conserve and environmentally improve the natural and artificial reef systems near Mexico Beach. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to: MBARA.org or to donate.als.org.

A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 CST at the Pavilion on Canal Parkway on Friday April 21, 2023. In case of rain, services will be held at the First Baptist Church of Mexico Beach, 15TH Street.