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BORN
1974
DIED
2011
John Key Obituary
AGE: 37 • Long Branch
John U. Key, Jr., 37, of Long Branch, passed away on October 16, 2011. He was born on April 3 in Neptune, NJ to John, Sr. and Annette Key.
John was educated in the Ocean Township Public School District where he was a honor student and an outstanding scholar-athlete. He graduated from the University of Delaware with a BA degree in Criminal Justice. In 2010 he received his Masters of Education degree in Education Administration and received his Principal's Certification shortly thereafter.
Because of his love for children and gift of teaching John decided to pursue a career in education. In 2000 he accepted a position as a full-time teacher in the Asbury Park School District. While at Asbury Park John continued to coach at Ocean Township until 2006. He held a number of school coaching positions within Monmouth County. His last position was an assistant coaching job with the Asbury Park Blue Bishops in 2011.
He is survived by his parents, John, Sr. and Annette Key; 2 children, Jaden and Michaela Key; 2 sisters, Kashfi (Kandy) Purnell, Kimberlae Key; aunts, Juanita, Ethel, Helen, Jean, Janice, Ireice, Olivia, Rubye (Burl), Delores, Janella (Albert); uncles, William, Mushibi (Ludell), Ronald (Lola), Eldridge, Carl Williams (Edwina), aka Mr. Fashion and a host of relatives and friends.
Visiting hours will be 12 pm Monday, October 24 at the Paramount Theater in Convention Hall, 1300 Ocean Ave, Asbury Park, until the time of the funeral at 2 pm. Cremation has been arranged at Monmouth Memorial Park, Tinton Falls. James H. Hunt Funeral Home, Asbury Park, is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, and if you desire, contributions may be made to the "Jaden & Michaela Key Scholarship Fund" in care of John & Annette Key, 261 Harvest Grove Trail, Dover, DE 19901.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Key
Sponsored by The Family.
JENNIE Schaefer Reilly
October 16, 2023
Missing you today
It's been 12 years since you physically walked among us. Your spirit is with us on Earth , thanks for being stellar.
Jacqueline Alston
October 16, 2022
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Randy Thomas
December 8, 2021
Never forgotten Coach Key!! been thinking about you lately and the words of wisdom that you´ve given, "Let your work speak for itself" One of the only coaches that put forth the effort to get me to play football at the next level. Forever thankful for all that you´ve done for a lot of people not just me!
Kimberlae Key
October 16, 2021
Irreplaceable void! Oh what I would do for one of your Confucius´ moments. Love you
Kimberlae Key
October 16, 2021
10 yrs? I still can´t believe it! I miss you like crazy. Love you Kid!
Jacqueline C. Alston
October 16, 2021
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Jennifer Fernandez
October 16, 2020
I worked with John and my daughter graduated from RBC with Jaden. I can’t believe it’s 9 years already. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
August 26, 2018
I love you
Kendra Key
April 3, 2014
Happy Birthday Cousin! I know you're having a grand time up there. Continue to watch over the family. Love you!
Katina Garrett
November 12, 2013
So sorry for your loss
Kimberlae Key
November 11, 2013
Morning John! Up early this morning just thinking how much I wish you were physically here! Jaden & Michaela are growing so fast. You did an awesome job with them! They are so much you..especially Jaden! They are truly a blessing to us! They are going to make sure that they continue your legacy! Jaden always says that he's going to do all that he can & take advantage of all opportunities that come his way, because he says "my dad told me not to go through life saying I would've, could've, should've, but I didn't! No regrets!" I just want you to know he WAS listening! lol A week after you passed he had Keshia get him a dog tag with that engraved in it. Michaela shares with us many of your pearls of wisdom that you gave to her! She too was listening! Well kid I have to go. I love you & miss you like crazy! You're continuing to make me proud lil brother!
Kimberlae Key
June 22, 2013
Hey John! I was in need of one of your "Confusious" moments the other day! Miss you like crazy! Love you kid!
megan calamanco
June 21, 2013
always in our hearts love michaela and megan
Michaela Key
March 16, 2013
Dad I wish you were on earth but god knows when people are ready to go one of them is you.i love and miss you your daughter michaela
Michaela Key
March 16, 2013
Dad I wish you were on earth but unfourtably god knows when it's time for people to go one of them is you. I love and miss you your daughter michaela
Michaela Key
February 6, 2013
I miss you so much daddy
Kimberlae Key
November 11, 2012
I miss you so much! They say as time goes by things will get easier..not sure about that! On so many occasions I want to pick up the phone & call you & then it hits me! The tears begin to flow. I feel your presence, but just hold you again, see that platinum smile, & tell you I love you ..PRICELESS! So many memories! Until we meet again little brother! Kim
Michele Knapp
October 7, 2012
Michaela misses you so much. I know you are watching over her
Bobby Lupo
September 20, 2012
Hi John,
On Friday, September 21st, you will be inducted to the OTHS hall of fame. You will live on in memory of your succes and always as my brother and friend. I think about you everyday, and all the memories we shared are vivid, seems like it was yesterday. I love and miss you John!!!
Grace McArthur
November 13, 2011
To the Key family - I was a secretary in the OTHS athletic office. John was a great student and a great athlete....he always had a smile. I'm so sorry to hear of your loss - my prayers are with you. Grace McArthur
kimberlae key
November 11, 2011
resting in peace...my brother, my friend, my confidant! i miss you so much!! love you kid!
Kimberlae Key
November 11, 2011
Resting In Peace...my brother, my friend, my confidant! I miss you so much!! Love you kid!
B. Parker
November 6, 2011
Dear Annette,
No bond is as great as that between a mother and son. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve. May God Bless you and your family at this time of sorrow.
Sincerely,
Brenda Day Parker
bro. vincent jones
October 29, 2011
to the key family: with deepest sympathy i am sorry to hear about the loss of your son. when last i remember seeing Little John at second baptist church he was such an active little boy..then grew to become a great family man after all these years. i'd like to say in spite of this trying time that you can all be proud of the impact John made on everyone around him. i'll be keeping your family in my prayers..
with deepest sympathy..
isaiah 61:2b-3 (niv)
October 29, 2011
My condolences to the Key Family and Friends . I pray that God will sustain you in this time of sorrow as he promises to do so at Psalms 55 verse 22. May you find comfort and hope in his Word.
BB-NJ
October 27, 2011
To the entire Key Family, with deepest sympathy in the loss of your son John. As a little boy John always had that light(sparkle) in his eye only God gives. His life was a true testimony of demonstrating kindness and love towards others. He will be with you in spirit. May God grant you peace, Much Love, The Robinson and Caines Family, Asbury Park
Ericka Torres
October 27, 2011
Mr & Mrs Key I was so saddend to hear about the loss of your son John Jr. I did not know him well but got the honor of meeting him a few times while working with John Sr. at the pharmacy in Oakhurst. My heart goes out to the entire Key family God bless.
Sincerely,
katina garrett
October 26, 2011
You will be dearly missed
Melva J. Quamina
October 26, 2011
To the key Family you have my most heart felt sympathy and love. I watched John Jr. grow up he was always a warm and sweet person. we at second Baptist of Asbury Park are grieving with you for the loss of John. He will Always be with us for the memories of John will always be in our hearts. I pray that God will continue to Bless and kept you in his care. The Beautiful Smile will never fade. Love, Melva J. Quamina
October 26, 2011
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
THELMA O. TOWNSEND
October 25, 2011
TO MY BROTHER JOHN SR, SIS. ANNETTE, AND THE FAMILY, I PRAY THAT GOD WILL GIVE YOU THE STRENGTH TO GO THROUGH THE PROCESS OF HEALING, JOHN JR. IS GONE ON AND GOT HIS CROWN.AND THIS SHOULD ENCOURAGE HIS NIECES AND NEPHEWS THAT ARE SO YOUNG TO START PREPARING FOR JESUS WILL ALSO COME AGAIN, WE KNOW NOT THE TIME OR HR, JOHN JR, WAS READY,HE WAS PREPARED HE WAS DOING WHAT GOD HAD ASSIGN HIM TO DO, AND HE DID IT WITH HONOR. LOVE ALL OF YOU. YOUR SIS. OLIVIA
Steven & Robin McGaskey
October 25, 2011
To the Key Family, we extend our love and prayers to your family in the homegoing of your son, John Key.
May God comfort you and strengthing you.
Dennis, Marie, Philip Santaita
October 25, 2011
To The Key Family,
Please know that John was loved by many and we are deeply sorry for your loss of him. His unselfish love for everyone around him is his legacy and that plus your memories of him should help you through this trying time. God Bless you all.
Dennis and Marie Santaita and Philip Dahrouge
October 25, 2011
John, Annette, Kim, Kandy & the Key Family, please accept our deepest sympathy with the passing of John John. May God/Jesus give peace & comfort to all of you. Rest in peace John John.
Angie, Rico, & Nasjhir Richardson, Nept., NJ
October 25, 2011
Mr. & Mrs. Key-
On behalf of the entire Athletic Department&Football staff at the University of Delaware, it is with heavy hearts that we send our sincere and deepest sympathy to you and your family. We hope it brings you some small comfort that you will be in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time of John's passing.
Elexsa
October 25, 2011
Mr. and Mrs. Key and family, may the Lord comfort you in only the way that he can! I will miss John's physical presence here but his spirit will always be a part of me! He will help me and everyone that loved him by shining his light on all of our lives from Heaven!!! Thank you for bring his spirit into this world for all of us . He will be missed!
October 25, 2011
Dear Annette & John,
I learned of your son through the many conversations with Annette during our working relationship at AT&T. He was indeed your pride and joy and I can't imagine the pain you are feeling. Please know that God knows and He will comfort you as only He can. May God's amazing grace sustain you and remind you that earth has no sorrow, that heaven cannot heal. May God continue to bless you and keep you all in His care.
With sympathy and love,
Debbie Elmore-Harrell
william & jane brooks
October 25, 2011
Dear Mr & Mrs. Carl Williams,
We are so sorry to hear about the lost of your nephew. Also to the Key family sorry for the lost of your son, it's evident that you both were terrific parents. May the Lord comfort you all in your hour of bereavement, may the Lord hide you underneath his wings, where you will find refuge.
Sincerely, William and Jane Brooks
Cathedral by the shore family
Linda Jones Mitchell
October 25, 2011
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Emmett & Antoinette Ross
October 24, 2011
Our prayers are with you John Sr. & Annette & the Key family you have our deepest sympathy.
Shannon Flannigan
October 24, 2011
John u have touched so many lives and i am so saddened that i wont get to see u ever again. U accomplished so much and brought smiles to so many including me. I am praying for u and ur family today and thank god that the world is lucky enough to have two boys who will live ur legacy. RIP
October 24, 2011
To Carl and the entire family.
Our prayers are with you all. Remember John going to OT Schools with our Rebecca. He was such a kind person.
Remember him also when we visited Carl's store. He grew to be such a fine young man.
May he always be an inspiration to his children.
Lana and John Gauvreau (Florida)
Tia Doggett
October 24, 2011
Rest in Peace Mr. Key...
Janice G
October 24, 2011
Key Family, Jaden, Michaela, Kimberlae, Kashfi (Davis) Purnell
It’s hard to lose someone you love,
someone who’s been a part of your life.
But there is comfort in always knowing
that the love and memories of him will
last forever.
With Sympathy,
Rebecca Kirsch
October 24, 2011
John's memory will live forever as he touched so many of our lives and our hearts. Always with a kind word and a smile. I hope that his children know what a wonderful person he was. Rest in peace friend
LINDA CURRY
October 24, 2011
TO THE FAMILY,
TRUST IN THE LORD WITH ALL THINE HEART, AND LEAN NOT TO THY UNDERSTANDING. MAY GOD CONTINUE TO STRENGTHEN AND COMFORT YOU IN YOUR TIME OF NEED.
Ps Darryl Matthews
Darryl Matthews
October 24, 2011
To the family of Bro John Key Jr,
The psalmist encourages us with the words, "Teach us to number our days . . ." because each day that we have on this earth is a precious gift.
For over 13,500+ days, we were blessed to have John with us. As a young boy growing up in 2nd I will always remember how sharp he was dressed and his quiet innocence and spirit.
The strong spiritual foundation instilled into him by Deacon John and Sis Annette blossomed into a strong and giving young man.
Although from our perspective it would appear that John was taken from us too soon, we are all reminded that our days on this earth are numbered and that we need to accomplish the tasks that God has place on our plates with the talents we have been blessed to have.
John cannot come back to us but thankfully we can go to him and enjoy rest in the arms of a loving Savior, Jesus Christ. May the Holy Spirit comfort the family and wider community as we go through this transition period.
In his Service,
Ps Darryl Matthews
Tampa FL
Yoshi Wilson
October 24, 2011
To The Key Family, May God continue to wrap his loving arms around you all during this challenging time.
Rahmel Tolliver
October 24, 2011
My hart goes out to the family,im a miss u homie,im a miss u bad,see u when I get there.
October 24, 2011
To the Key Family,
He was Lil John to me at SBC and grew up to become a fine young man who always had a smile on his face, quiet and willing to help those in need. God has great plans for him and our memories of him will last a lifetime. God Bless and comfort you in these trying times. Just turn it over to the Lord and he'll work it out.
Love,
Velda
LaRonda Bronw
October 24, 2011
To the Key Family Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal, an exceptional angel has made it into the Kingdom although we will miss him dearly on earth we will see him again. May God bless and cover you all during this time.
Keisha Taylor
October 24, 2011
To the Key family, and all who were close to and touched by John,I send my Condolences and Love.I will keep close all the good memories from Sunday school/Church at Second Baptist to present times. What a Great Man and lasting legacy! May God comfort you.
Michele Knapp
October 24, 2011
I will come today to say goodbye. Please watch over my neice michaela in all she does in life. She loved you very much. Rest in peace.
Kirsten Mattes Kahle
October 24, 2011
What sorrow! I remember his ready smile. He always had such an friendly way. He was so very very easy to care for. God's Blessing on him and his family. OTHS '92
Zara Peters Wynn
October 24, 2011
To the family of John Key, Jr.
We are never prepared for the transition of our loved ones. Please accept my sincerest sympathy for the loss of your son, father,brother, uncle, nephew,cousin and friend.
Let the pleasant memories of the 37 wonderful years that John was with you, serve as a reminder that God needed him more than he was needed here on earth. Remember God selects only the BEST.
I am praying that god will sustain your grief.
Sincerely,
CAROLYN WASHINGTON
October 24, 2011
"Grace andPeace,Earth has no sorrow,that Heaven cannot Heal".Our Prayers are with you and the Family at this trying time.Parents take comfort in knowing,you reared a young man that was a Gift and Loved by his fellow man,Sisters take comfort in knowing ,you loved and shared your Brother,and for that we "THANK YOU".__Carolyn McALLISTER,Washington&Family.
Christy Blakley Degenhart
October 24, 2011
I will, always remember his big laugh, his beautiful big smile and his amazingly big heart. The name John Key has always and will always bring a smile to my face. I am praying for strength for your family and God's blessings on his children. OTHS '92
Wanda Smith
October 23, 2011
To the family of John Key,
I am sending many prayers and much love. I am sorry for your loss. We may never understand the reason things happen. Please believe you will be reunited again. Live your life as a testimony to your love for John.Continue to let his light shine. You are a Blessed and wonderful family covered by the love of God. May God strengthen and uplift you through this painful time.
Connie Wiley
October 23, 2011
I never met my cousin;however the Spirit relieved my spirit and infomed me that John truly loved Him. God bless and keep out family.
October 23, 2011
CHRISTIANS, DEATH HOLDS SOME WONDERFUL BLESSINGS, IT"S RELEASE YOU FROM ALL YOUR PAINS, THE HEADACHES, AND THE TESTING OF THIS PRESENT LIFE,ABSENT FROM THE BODY IS TO BE PRESENT WITH THE LORD, THAT"S THE GREATEST DEATH BENEFIT OFF ALL. JOHN JR. DEATH IS NOT GLOOM BUT GLORY, LOVE YOU, AUNTIE, OLIVIA
Ryan, Derek & Jackie Alston
October 23, 2011
Grief can be so hard, but our Special Memories will comfort us during the
rough days ahead. Remembering You Today and Always.
lavern&alexander ramsey_bell
October 23, 2011
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Louise Pierce
October 23, 2011
John and Annette Key and Family,
I am so sorry to hear of John's untimely passing. My deepest sympathy to you and all the family. May your memories of love and time shared together bring many smiles along with your many tears during your times of grief. I will continue to pray with and for you that God will comfort you. In His Love,
Sirett Williams
October 23, 2011
To the Key Family, I would like to give my sympathy for the lost of John. Even though I had not seen him in over 30yrs being close friends with his sister Kim for over 35yrs it was like I still know him after all this time. I know it's hard loosing a love one especially as young as him but I hope you take in the idea that he was a server and the good lord took him while he was doing exactly what he was put on this earth to do.
Love to you all
Elizabeth Dove
October 23, 2011
John and Annette, I am so saddened of the loss for you and your family. John Jr will always remain in our thoughts and lives. He has touched and inspired so many. Your unselfish love for him is testimony to me of the wonderful person he was. My sincerest
sympathy to you and your family. Elizabeth "Peaches" and Family.
Olethia Godwin
October 23, 2011
Our prayers are with the Key family as God ushers home John. RIP John. Deacon William Howie, Keith Howie and Lisa Howie
October 23, 2011
John and Annette,
May you be comforted and have Peace that only God gives.
Pete and Gail Navarro
Jennie Schaefer
October 23, 2011
May the Lord watch over you and keep you safe. May you watch over your children and teach them your ways. May you watch over your family and know you are with them always. May you watch over your friends as they know you always have. God Bless you John. Let us all continue to act the way you have up until the end of your life.
Jessie Stephens
October 23, 2011
God has plans for us all, and for John U.Key Jr.the Lord called you home to continue the work the Lord has for you, and for you to continue to touch all of us. May God keep you close in his arms and may God bless your family in such a time as this, my deepest condolences to all who knew this brite shiney star, GOD BLESS!
John & Betty McClain
October 23, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Donna and Simone Puryear
October 23, 2011
I will remember John as quiet brother with a warm smile. He will be missed by all who knew him. To the family may your hearts be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Bro Henry Warren
October 23, 2011
We may not know the day or hour for our rest. But be assured GOD knows his children when they pass a test. Take comfort in the time shared in life. Blessing all those whom he touched along the way,that I may see my savouir one day. God Bless the Key family.
Bro Henry & Dj Warren
& Family
October 23, 2011
Peace and serenity to John and his family. An amazing human being taken far to soon. Your kindness will never be forgotten. Rest In Peace and may you watch over your children. God bless you and your family.
Effie Elshtein
Stacie Armstrong
October 23, 2011
John and family, may you find peace. We will always remember your smile and all you have done for education and football. Sorry you were taken so early but you were amazing. Gob bless your children.
Ray White
October 23, 2011
"To The Key Family, sorry for your loss." I didn't know your son, but he seems like a wonderfull young man, may he rest in peace.
Cassandra Giglio
October 23, 2011
RIP John Gone But Never Will Be Forgotten
Greg Hawkins
October 23, 2011
Rest in Peace Bro !
Sharon Stevenson
October 22, 2011
I most remember you as being the quiet gentleman who was always willing to help a colleague whether it was in the copyroom or bringing packages into the school. Your memory will live on in our hearts and minds. I am praying for the family that they find peace in knowing that they raised a great young man. He will be truly missed.
Mark Hill
October 22, 2011
To the family may God send his comfort to ease the pain in a time like this, I didnt know John personally but just from what I ve heard and seen over the years as far as his coaching ability and loving kids he's the best and he's outstanding in the sight of God, Hey John Thanks for making a change for the community of Asbury Park New Jersey
Peace n Love Mark A. Hill sr.
Ethel Davis
October 22, 2011
To John,Annette,children,sisters and the Key family,as we go through this crisis we tend to ask why?why did this happen?How could God let this happen?God may never reveal His reasons to us , but be assured that He makes no mistakes.He is a caring God. He knows our sorrow. May we take comfort in knowing that He will see us through this difficult time.Know that God is holding our hand and will not let go.Our need is great but the grace that is ours through Jesus Christ is greater.Isa 41:10 So do not fear,for I am with you,do not be dismayed,for I am God,I will strengthen you and help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. ....weeping may endure for a night, but joy come in morning. Look up, God is nigh and He knows how much we can bear.Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal. Blessings Your Sister and Aunt Mae
Vesa Hill
October 22, 2011
RIP John...just sitting here remembering the time Faze's truck (Snow) got dented...and blamed Drizz..lol...missing you Cuz!! Love u always!!!
vesa hill
October 22, 2011
RIP John..remember putting the dent in faze's truck (snow)...lol..and blaming drizz....lol.....miss & love you cuz!!!
Ethel Davis
October 22, 2011
John you wish no one a last farewell not even said goodbye,. you were gone before we knew it,and only God knows why,when God call you to come you didn't go alone for a part of us went with you, the day God called you home we miss you so very much.Rest in peace John John....Do not be dismayed for I am God and I will strengthen you and help you.. I will uphold you with my righteous right hand., Isa 41:10 Aunt Mae Love You.
Lori Eggleston
October 22, 2011
May you rest in peace!!!You have earned your wings.
Patty and Ivan Weston
October 22, 2011
it was an honor and a privlage to have grown up with and known such a pure man. you will be greatly missed. your legacy will live on through your children.....may you rest in peace.
Ethel Davis
October 22, 2011
To John,Annette and to the children sisters and all of our Family As we go through this crisis we tend to ask why?why did this happen? How could God let this happen? God may never reveal the reason to us,. but be assured that he makes no mistakes. He is an ever caring God. The need that we face is great,but the grace that is ours in Christ Jesus is greater. Allow your heart and faith stay fixed upon Him as we go through these difficult times.
gena baselici
October 22, 2011
So long old friend! How u have touched so many lives in such a small amount of time. Our class will keep you alive forever! Watch over us all john! With my deepest condolences...gena baselici'92
Toney Lawrence
October 22, 2011
Rest in peace John John. You will be missed. You accomplished much during your short time here. What a great legacy. Love you man. Your cousin Toney.
Cedric Laney
October 22, 2011
Ima miss are football talks. Thanks for giving me the knowledge on the game of football. Thanks for training my son. Ima miss you my dude.
Jennifer Fernandez
October 22, 2011
Rest in peace John!
LYNN JOHNSON
October 22, 2011
YOU WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED!! GONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN.....
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