James Nelson Key

James Nelson Key, 69, husband of Teresa Key, passed away Saturday, February 28, 2026, after a brave battle with ALS. 

James “Jimmy” Nelson Key, born May 22, 1956, in Spartanburg, was the son of the late James H. Key and Francis Steadman Key. Raised in his beloved hometown, Jimmy carried his deep love for Spartanburg throughout his life. 

Jimmy was a lifelong man of faith. He was a devoted member of Roebuck Baptist Church from birth until 1999, when he became a member of First Presbyterian Church Spartanburg.

 A graduate of Dorman High School, Class of 1974, Jimmy went on to earn a business management degree from USC Spartanburg. He built a distinguished career in the grocery and consumer goods industries. Jimmy served as Director of Marketing, Advertising and Buying for Community Cash, a Spartanburg-based grocery chain, until its closing in 1999. He then became President of Thomas & Howard – Spartanburg, where he served until 2008. From 2008 until his retirement in 2025, Jimmy worked as National Accounts Manager for Liggett Vector Brands and later for JTI. 

Jimmy loved spending time with his wife, his dear friends, neighbors of Coburn Drive and his dog Gabby. He had a passion for classic cars, enjoyed traveling, took pride in his own yardwork and delighted in hosting dinners for family and friends. He cherished his children, and especially his grandchildren. 

In addition to his wife, Teresa, Jimmy is survived by his children, Beth Foster (Brooks) of Roebuck, SC, Chip Key (Christy) of Spartanburg, SC, Phillip Key (Sierra) of Nashville, TN, Daniel Key of Augusta, GA, Kayla Reid (Mark) of Pickens, SC and Brent Wood (Maria); eight grandchildren, Jude and Launa Foster, Averi Key, Stevie and Wesley Belue; Natalie, Karson and Peyton Reid; and sisters, Sallie Key (David) of Greer, SC and Teresa Gossett of Spartanburg, SC.

Family will receive friends from 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm, Friday, March 6, 2026, Roebuck Baptist Church, 1979 E. Blackstock Rd, Roebuck, SC 29376. Funeral service will follow at 3:00 pm, at Roebuck Baptist Church with the Reverand Dr. James Rudy Gray conducting the services. Burial will be in Roebuck Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mobile Meals - Spartanburg, www.mobile-meals.org

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Floyd's Greenlawn Chapel.