Obituary of John D. Key, Jr.

John D. Key, Jr., “Pops”, was born December 31,1947 in Memphis, Tennessee to the late John D. Key, Sr. and Dosha Farris Key.  He departed this life on February 19, 2023. 

After moving north to the Chicago, IL area, John, Jr. received his education in the Public Schools System and was a graduate of Zion - Benton Township High School, Class of 1966.

Throughout his life, John, Jr. worked as a Reporting and Sports Entertainment videographer and camera operator for WZTV 17, Channel 8 Tennessee Crossroads, and ESPN/Jefferson Pilot.

John, Jr. was a proud veteran of the United States Army. His military details included Motor Pool Mechanic, Staff Sergeant, Hand to Hand Combat instructor, 101st Airborne and most importantly, the Vietnam War. He often expressed how proud he was to have served his country and would gladly do it again. 

John, Jr. professed his faith in Christ and joined Love United Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Lewis Patton and later, Pastor Alvin White. He later joined Generation Church. 

Pops leaves to forever cherish his memory, loving wife of 37 years, Willie Kate Henning Key; daughter Tanika Henning who he affectionately called Nicholas; bonus daughter Tiffany White; his sisters-in-law: Ann Shirley Henning (Clarksville, TN), Minister Virginia Henning (Norcross, GA), and Martha Jo Jones (Ripley, TN); Brother-in-law, Wardell A. Henning, Jr. (Henning, TN); dedicated niece, Tammy Ganaway; dedicated friend and brother, Min. Steve Bratton and numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. 

Please remember the Key family in your thoughts and prayers.