Melissa Kay Key

Melissa (Bob) Kay Key, 49, of McMinn County passed away on January 9, 2026.

Missy's greatest joy was her beloved chihuahuas, Muffin, Hot Wheels, and Bubba, who were truly her constant companions. She enjoyed going to Planet Fitness and working out to stay active when she was feeling up to it. Missy had a bright, curious mind and a genuine love for learning. She also had a wonderful sense of humor and could always "cut up" with others, bringing smiles and laughter to those around her. Missy will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Preceded in death by her father, Jeff Key; maternal grandmother, Anna Byrum; maternal grandfather, James T. "JT" Byrum; paternal grandmother, Marjorie Womac and her husband, RJ Womac; paternal grandfather, Claude Key; aunt, Ella Womac; special friend, Lisa Newson; loving chihuahuas, Myrtle and MeMe.

Survivors include her mother, Brenda (Ray "Estel") Day; step mother, Cathy Key; step siblings, Jennifer (Michael) Self and Nathan Day; step grandmother, Jane Hicks; aunts, Toni West, Terri (Todd) Wade, Tammy Roderick, and Amy West; uncles, Steve (Alice) Byrum, Rickie (Bertha) Byrum, Scott Key, John (Connie) Norwood and Jesse Norwood; best friend, Tara Felts; several nieces, nephews, cousins and other loved family and friends.

A Memorial Service will be held on January 17, 2026 at 2:00pm at Companion Funeral Home of Athens, TN. A Visitation will be held prior from 1:00-2:00.

You are invited to share a personal memory of Melissa or your condolences with her family at her online memorial located at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral Home of Athens and the Cody family are honored to assist the family with these arrangements.