Elnora Key

Born December 4, 1946, in Sunnyside, Washington, Elnora was raised in the Yakima Valley by her parents, Lee William Grant and Mary Ella Grant (Dirks), both deceased. She began working at just sixteen in an apple warehouse in Grandview, developing the strong work ethic that defined her life.

Elnora raised her children as a single mother with determination and strength. She was a gifted seamstress and perfectionist who later owned and operated her own upholstery business, working on furniture, boats, RVs, and automobiles. Never one to stop learning, she graduated from Perry Technical Institute with a degree in Instrumentation and Industrial Controls and went on to work at the Hanford Nuclear Site as an instrumentation engineer and later as a planner and scheduler.

Earlier in life, she treasured special trips with her grandchildren while they were young, including memorable visits to Nebraska and Seattle.

Later in life, Elnora shared a loving companionship with Rodger Garrison. Together they enjoyed extensive travel, including winters in Palm Springs, an Alaska cruise, a river cruise in Europe, time at his family cabin on Rimrock Lake, and many trips to Hawaii.

Elnora was known for her strong will, sharp sense of humor, creativity, and love of family gatherings. In her later years, she found joy in simple pleasures—Arizona winters outdoors, watching birds (especially hummingbirds), and spending cherished time with her son and family on trips and day outings.

She is survived by her children, Jerry Dale Key and Teresa Ann Key; her grandson, John Silva (wife Samantha); her great-grandchildren, Jaxon Wood and Noah Silva; her brothers, Charles Grant (wife Patti) and David Grant (wife Sandy); and many loving nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Crystal Anne Key, and several siblings.

Elnora will be laid to rest at Grandview Cemetery in Grandview, Washington. She will be remembered for her strength, intelligence, creativity, and the love she carried throughout her life.