Ricky Lee Key

Obituary of Ricky Lee Key

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Ricky Lee Key, born on August 20, 1955, in Cleveland, Ohio, passed away peacefully at his home in Fort Worth, Texas, on August 16, 2025. He was 69 years old. He was the beloved son of the late William "Billy" F. Key and Billie A. Key.

Ricky was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, dedicating 20 years of honorable service to his country, including time served during Operation Desert Shield/Storm. His military career was both distinguished and diverse, reflecting his dedication to excellence in every assignment.

Raised in Mantua, Ohio, Ricky was an avid sports enthusiast from a young age. He loved to reminisce about his childhood, especially the time he played football with a future NFL player for the Miami Dolphins. However, basketball was his true talent, and he proudly played for Crestwood High School, Class of 1973.

Music was a lifelong passion for Ricky. Though he played guitar, he often joked that he wasn't as good as he hoped to be. What he lacked in performance, he made up for in creativity, writing song lyrics and poetry, with dreams of one day hearing his words set to music.

Ricky loved the outdoors camping, snorkeling, grilling, and spending evenings around a fire with family and friends. These moments brought him great joy and were some of the ways he most enjoyed life.

His Air Force training was extensive and included specialized instruction in aircraft pneudraulics, digital flight simulation, computer systems, leadership, and operations. Highlights of his military education include:

· Aircraft Pneudraulic Repairman & Technician (B52D/F)

· Digital Navigation/Tactics & Flight Simulator Technician (F-4/F-4E)

· F-4G Wild Weasel Operator and Maintenance

· NCO Leadership School

· SEL 32/75 Series Computer Training

· OJT Trainer & Manager Supervisor Courses

· War Skill Training

· Digital Techniques Specialty Internship

Ricky received numerous honors and commendations for his service, including:

· Air Force Commendation Medal with 2 devices

· Air Force Achievement Medal

· Outstanding Unit Award with 4 devices

· Good Conduct Medal with 5 devices

· Organizational Excellence Award

· National Defense Service Medal with 1 device

· Overseas Short and Long Tour Ribbons (with 1 device)

· Longevity Service Award Ribbon with 4 devices

· Small Arms Marksmanship Ribbon

· Training Ribbon

While stationed in Guam, Ricky served as the Morale, Welfare, Recreation, and Services Supervisor, where he helped create a shelter initiative setting up tents on the beach for those in need of safe refuge.

Later in life, Ricky followed his spiritual calling. He attended Winebrenner Theological Seminary (Findlay, Ohio), taking courses at the Scotland School campus. He served as Senior Pastor at Discipleship Without Walls / All God's Children, where he lived out his mission to "Preach and teach the love of Jesus in non-traditional ways." Ricky dedicated the remainder of his life to mission works supporting veterans, individuals facing addiction, and those in need of spiritual and emotional guidance. He was often seen handing out pocket Bibles and faith-based coins, always ready with a prayer or kind word. Whether traveling or serving locally, he was just a call, text, or email away for anyone in need.

Ricky will be remembered for his unwavering faith, deep patriotism, and a generous spirit that touched the lives of countless individuals. His legacy of love, service, and compassion lives on in the hearts of all who knew him.

He is survived by his brother, Tony R. Key (TX), and his six children: Rachel R. Hughes-Key (Hanover, PA), Shawna M. Graddy (FL), Nichole L. Peters (FL), William Key (TX), Christopher Key, and Mary Ann Key (TX); 19 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; three nieces; and one nephew.