Dr. John Wilton Key, 87, a dedicated educator, beloved family man, and active community member, peacefully passed away on Monday, February 12, 2024, in Carrollton, Georgia, surrounded by his loving family. Dr. Key retired from the University of West Georgia in 1994 after serving on the faculty at West Georgia for 24 years.

Dr. Key was born on May 18, 1936, in Ozark, Alabama, the youngest of five children to the late James Comer and Annie Maude Key. He completed his high school education at Carroll High School in 1954, marking the beginning of an illustrious academic journey.

Dr Key's passion for education led him to excel academically, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education from Troy State University in 1959, a Master of Education from Auburn University in 1963, and ultimately, a Doctorate in Education from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1970. His commitment to teaching was evident throughout his career, as he began at Carroll High School in Ozark, Alabama, before becoming an assistant professor at Middle Georgia College. In 1970, he joined the faculty at West Georgia College as an associate professor, where he served in various capacities, including as the Dean of the Education Department from 1977 to 1978, and as a Professor and Director of Field Experiences and Teacher Certification. He served as the Faculty Marshall and was a member of many professional and academic organizations. His dedication to shaping the minds of future educators left an indelible mark on countless students and colleagues.

Dr Key was not only an exceptional educator but also a devoted member of St. Margaret's Episcopal Church, serving as a former senior warden and member of the choir. In addition to his spiritual devotion, he was a master woodworker whose craftsmanship was admired by all who saw it. His commitment to community service extended to his membership in the Golden Kiwanis Club holding numerous offices including president. He was a frequent guest lecturer where he discussed the history of education in Carroll County. Dr. Key also enjoyed traveling all over the world, including his 70th birthday trip to Ireland.

Dr. Key married the love of his life, Mary Elizabeth (Liz) Price, and their unwavering love and devotion to each other spanned an incredible 64 years. Together, they raised a loving family, including their son, James Christopher Key, and his husband, Chuck Karnau, of Fayetteville and their daughter, Kimberly Paige Key of Roswell.

A celebration of Dr. John Wilton Key's life will be held on Saturday, February 17, at 1:00 pm at St. Margaret's Episcopal Church, followed by a joyful gathering at the Little Hawaiian Restaurant. A private family interment will take place at Carroll Memory Gardens. The services will be conducted by the Very Rev. Jeff Jackson.

The family will receive friends at Almon Funeral Home on Friday, February 16 from 5pm to 7pm and on Saturday from 11:30am until 12:30pm.

Pallbearers are Chuck Karnau, Peter Maierhofer, Justin Maierhofer, Clay Robinson, Michael Crafton and Robert Graf.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in his memory to St Margaret's Episcopal Church 606 Newnan Street, Carrollton, GA 30117 or the James R. Fulford Endowed Chair of Neurology at Tanner Health System, Tanner Foundation, P. O. Box 695, Carrollton, GA 30112 or online at https://www.tanner.org/tanner-foundation/fulford-endowment

Dr. John Wilton Key will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love will forever remain in our hearts, serving as a testament to a life well-lived.

Messages of condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.almonfuneralhome.com.

Almon Funeral Home of Carrollton has charge of arrangements.