James Michael "Jim" Key Sr.

James Michael "Jim" Key Sr. obituary, Johnston City, IL

James Michael "Jim" Key Sr.

Upcoming Events

Oct

4

Service

11:00 a.m.

Williams Prairie

17333 Dean Rd, Johnston City, IL 62951

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James Key Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Pyle Funeral Home - Johnston City on Sep. 30, 2025.

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James Michael "Jim" Key, Sr., 75, of Johnston City, passed away at 11:25 a.m., Monday, September 29, 2025, at his home.

Jim was born on October 29, 1949, in Herrin, to James Wesley and Jessie Mae (Travelstead) Key. Jim was a 1969 graduate of Marion High School. After graduating, Jim joined the workforce and worked as a coal miner for Consol Coal Mine for 28 years. He was a longtime member of the United Mine Workers of America.

Jim was an outdoorsman and enjoyed duck & goose hunting. He kept his neighborhood safe by doing daily patrols on his side-by-side. Jim had a green thumb and could grow with the best. He was known for having some of the best tomatoes around. He also enjoyed buying and trading.

He is survived by his children, Jimmy (Sheila) Key of Johnston City and Jamie (Chris) Thomas of Johnston City; five grandchildren, James (Bailey) Key of Johnston City, Jenni (Brandon) Cobb of Pittsburg, Roger (Bobbie) Melvin of Elkville, Dalton (Molly) Key of West Frankfort, and Lexie (Kaleb)Thomas of Benton. He is also survived by seven great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Joann and Marsha.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 4, 2025, at Williams Prairie Cemetery in Johnston City.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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Upcoming Events

Oct

4

Service

11:00 a.m.

Williams Prairie

17333 Dean Rd, Johnston City, IL 62951

Send Flowers

Only 3 days left for delivery to next service.