Davie Lee "Leeky" Key has gone back home on Wednesday, February 24, 2016. He was born in Roanoke, Va., on January 28, 1930, to Bain H. Key and Gladys L. Key. He lived in Roanoke during his early years. Then later, as a young man, he was introduced to his future bride, Mary Isabell Spraker. After joining the Air Force and being stationed near Orlando, Fla., in 1951, they were married. When he was discharged, he and his wife returned to Roanoke to start a family. Between 1952 and 1958, they would have four children, Lynn Key Thorn, Davie Lee Key Jr. (Stephanie), Douglas K. Key, and Michael B. Key (Carolyn). After being offered a job in Richmond, Va., they all moved there in 1959. He started as an apprentice, working for Richmond Engraving. After a few years he was then offered a job for Richmond Newspapers, Media General. Working there he became a Photo-Engraver and moved to Mechanicsville, Va. He loved his job with Richmond Newspapers and the camaraderie with his fellow employees. When the Newspaper moved their operations from Downtown Richmond to Hanover County, he retired.His wife, Mary, and he were married for almost 65 years, before both of their worlds started to unravel due to health problems. His son, Douglas, preceded him in death in 1990.Besides his daughter and two remaining sons and their spouses, he leaves behind eight grandchildren, Joshua, Dillon and Rebecca Key, Jessica (John) Judy, Kimberly Lucas, Terry (Jay) Witherell, Alan and Lewis Thorn; and four great-grandchildren, Erik, Miranda, David and Ramses. There will be a time of visitation from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, February 26, 2016, at Oakey's North Chapel. Services will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, February 27, 2016, from the graveside at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, 5737 Airport Road, Roanoke, Va.In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Diabetes Association or to the ASPCA. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.oakeys.com.

Posted in Obituaries on Friday, February 26, 2016 12:00 am