Nicole Elaine Keys

Nicole was an excellent worker and was known in the D.C. area for her service in the Mental Health Field and was looking forward to getting her degree so she could become an official Psychiatrist before she passed. Talented, graceful, and beautiful are just some of the adjectives to describe this woman’s legacy. Nicole Keys, 46, of College Park, passed suddenly but peacefully in

her sleep in her room on February 3rd.

She was born in Columbus Ohio in 1979 to Hazel Mae and Freeman Edward Wilson, who after the birth of their first gorgeous daughter, decided to have four more beautiful girls. They moved to

Maryland soon after and raised the girls in a warm and happy home, developing the relationships and bonds that only sisters can have. Together they climbed trees, explored their neighborhoods

and rode bikes together in the summer sun. Nicole graduated from Fairmont High school at the age of 17 and joined the workforce shortly after, experiencing motherhood herself and having two

children. A girl and a boy.

CHILDREN: Nicole loved her two children Simone and Wayne like no other. Every year as children, she’d make baskets and bring little gifts asking them to be her valentine. Took them out to sports games for their local teams and made sure every memory they shared would be cherished until she took her last breath. Her relationship with her daughter was magical, they shared everything with each other, and she was even present to hold her daughter’s hand when it was her turn to become a mother.

GRANDCHILDREN: Nicole loved her job, spending time with her friends, and dabbling in baking, Nicole’s favorite role was being a grandmother the most. She loved spending time with her “cutie spooty girl” and loved being her “Gigi”. She never failed to come home after work and run to her, wrapping her in the tightest hug to recharge from her day with baby cuddles.

SPECIAL FRIENDS – Nicole and Meridith were practically inseparable throughout their lives. From graduation, motherhood and marriage, they were together through it all. Meridith invited her

friend to watch her walk down the aisle before she left and cherished that memory in her heart.

Nicole was passionate about her role as a Crisis Counselor and 9-1-1 Operator at the Department Of Behavioral Health. She worked for the company for almost 20 years and was beloved by her

co-workers and admired for her work ethic and passion for the job.

Nicole will always be remembered for her wit, her positive spirit, her advice and beautiful smile. We’ll always imagine hearing her say, “I’ll never steer you wrong, baby.” one more time. We couldn’t have asked for a better mother, sister, friend and grandmother. We will miss Nicole every day. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all those who loved her.

Nicole was preceded in death by her mother, Hazel and her father, Freeman.

She is survived by her daughter, Simone; son, Wayne; four sisters; and her grandchild.

NIcole’s viewing date will be February 25th, 2026 from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM at Fort Lincoln Cemetery located at 3401 Bladensburg Rd., Brentwood, Maryland 20722. Following, is the Celebration of Life beginning at 1:30 PM at the same location. Donations to PBS (the Public Broadcasting System) would be greatly appreciated.