James Key

James H. Key, 82, of Van Buren, died Monday, September 9, 2013 in Fort Smith. He was born September 5, 1931 in Davidson, AR to the late Thomas and Eller Key. He was the owner/operator of Key’s Grocery in Kibler for 20 years, also worked as a meat cutter for Piggly Wiggly, Tel Star and People’s Warehouse Market. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict, was a member of Kibler Baptist Church, and served on the Kibler City Council.

He is survived by his wife, Juanita Key of the home; two daughters, Diane Prestidge and husband Gary of Kibler, and Angela Wilkins and husband Rick of Van Buren; two sons, Ron Key and wife Melissa of Greenwood, and Dwain Key and wife Vicki of Van Buren; two sisters; three brothers; nine grandchildren, and thirteen great-grandchildren.

Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, September 12, 2013 at Kibler Baptist Church with burial to follow at Gill Cemetery in Van Buren, under the direction of Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home of Van Buren.

Pallbearers will be Josh Allen, Rick Prestidge, Chris Shelton, Alex Key, Johnny Key, and Stanley Key.

The family will visit with friends from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, September 11, 2013 at Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home, 4100 Alma Highway, Van Buren, AR.