Betty Elaine Key

Carmel, Indiana – Betty Elaine Key, 84, passed away on October 17, 2024, after being comforted by her sons and daughters. She was born in Veto, Alabama, on April 13, 1940, to parents Joseph Wallace and Ruby Hargrove. Her spirit, sassiness, and love will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Elaine grew up in Alabama before moving to Indiana and completing her high school career at Arsenal Technical High School. In 1992 Welby and Elaine were married and remained together until his passing in 2015 after 23 years of marriage.

Elaine’s life was filled with many wonderful memories; Elvis’ last concert at the Hoosier Dome, and family fish fries that would make her feel flustered in the kitchen but never needing help. A Southern woman, through and through, she expressed her love the most through cooking and making sure no one left her kitchen hungry.

Elaine loved to travel with Welby in their RV, listening to bluegrass and old country music, and making bead bracelets while on the road. She also found time to work on knitting and was quite the seamstress when the kids were younger.

Most of all, Elaine loved her family. A truly blended family, Elaine was delighted by her new children welcomed them in whole heartedly. The family motto became “There are steps but no stairs”.

In addition to her parents and Welby, Elaine is preceded in death by her brothers Ned and Ray Wallace.

Elaine is survived by her children; Kristen Key Love, Steven Key (Christine), David Key (Patricia), Jennifer Key and Bradley Key (Jenny); siblings Wade Wallace, Connie Adams, Joe Wallace, and Ronnie Wallace; grandchildren Josh, Mandy, Emily, Andrew, Stephanie, Brittany, Brandon, Adam, Coen, Nicholas, and Chloe; as well as 12 great-grandchildren. 

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at Flanner Buchanan - Washington Park East (10722 East Washington Street, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46229) from 12 pm - 2 pm with funeral services following at 2 pm. Reverend Nancy Lafferty will be presiding with burial taking place immediately following at Washington Park East Cemetery.