Theodore Harold Key

Theodore Harold Key affectionately known as Teddy, Poppy, Gus and Bear was born on May 21, 1939 to Gertrude Duffin and Dwight Key in New York City. Teddy received his wings on November 4, 2022 at the age of 83.

Teddy was raised by his loving grandmother who he called Mama and his mother (Tiss). He was the light of their eyes and could do no wrong. Teddy came to know the Lord through these two strong faithful women.

Teddy was educated in the Washington, DC public school system. During one of his summer breaks, he met his soon to be wife, Edith. They were married in 1959 and from that union three children were born (Melinda, Theodore Jr and Torrey). Teddy moved to NYC to be with his family. There he held various jobs, his last being a glass cutter. Teddy later returned to DC where he lived the rest of his life. Teddy was a people person, he had an affectionate smile, enjoyed giving and having laughs with family and friends. Teddy loved to dress and smell good. He was definitely dapper. Some of his favorite things to do were watching football, boxing & westerns, listening to Jazz (not contemporary), and most of all playing scrabble. He was very competitive when it came to scrabble. We think he had the scrabble dictionary memorized.

In 2009 Teddy suffered a stroke which left him partially paralyzed and wheelchair bound. Even with that he kept his affectionate smile and hearty laughter. He never complained or gave up hope. Up until a few months ago, Teddy was saying that he was going to buy a car so he can drive again. He felt that if he could whip his motorized wheelchair, he sure could whip a car.

Teddy loved when his wife, children, grandchildren and great grands would come and visit him. He would be sad to see them leave and would never say goodbye (just like his mother).

Daddy we are so glad that God gave us the opportunity to bring you to NY one last time. You were so happy and filled with emotions, relaying to us that “you thought you would never make it to NY again”. Never did we think that would be our last time seeing you. We were planning for the holidays. It was just that, our plans, not Gods’. Sleep in Peace, Our Love!

Teddy was preceded in death by his parents and grandmother. He leaves to cherish his memory: wife (Edith Key), daughters (Melinda, Torrey & Michelle), son (Theodore Jr) grandchildren (Genell, Jaylen & Brianna) great grands (Ellayana & Cameron), sisters (Christine & Sandra), brother (Dwight), a Dear, Special longtime companion (Algenia Ross & family) as well as a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. The family would like to thank Kim his home aide for the outstanding care and love that she showed him.

WE KNOW YOU WOULD BE HERE TODAY IF HEAVEN WASN’T SO FAR AWAY!

Acknowledgements

The family wishes to express their sincerest gratitude and acknowledge with deep appreciation the many expressions of love, condolences and kindness shown to them during this time of bereavement. May God Bless and Keep You!