Samuel DePass Key

COLUMBIA - Samuel DePass Key, 86, died Monday, February 7, 2022 at the Lexington Medical Center. Sam Key was born in Chester, S.C. on March 8, 1935, to the late James Turner and Isabel DePass Key. He was a 1953 graduate of Dreher High School and a member of the Clemson University Class of 1957. Sam served three years in the United States Army, two of those years in the Army Security Agency in Heidelberg, Germany. Returning home from the Army, he earned an Associate’s degree from Midlands Technical College. He spent his working life as an internal auditor at First National Bank, South Carolina National Bank, Wachovia and the S.C. Department of Social Services. In retirement, he spent 15 enjoyable years working as a courier for South State Bank.

Sam was a lifelong member of Shandon Presbyterian Church, serving the church in many capacities, including both as a Deacon and an Elder and a member of the William Harden Sunday School class. He was a devoted supporter of Clemson University athletics and was an enthusiastic runner, participating in local road races well into his 70s. Sam was possessed of an indelible charm and delightful sense of humor that left countless friends from every stage of life.

Sam was predeceased by his wife of 52 years, Kathryn Cogburn Key; and his brother, James Turner Key Jr. He is survived by his two sons, Robert S. Key of Clemson, S.C., Douglass D. Key and his wife, Kathy, of Columbia, S.C.; his grandson, Thomas Key of Columbia; and his brother, William A. Key of Lynn, MA.

Memorials may be made to the Shandon Presbyterian Church, 607 Woodrow Street, Columbia, SC 29205.

A Service of Witness to the Resurrection will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, February 11, 2022, at Shandon Presbyterian Church, the Rev. Dr. Franklin Fant and the Rev. Jenny McDevitt officiating. Inurnment will precede the service in the church’s memorial garden. The family will receive friends on the front lawn of the church following the service.

Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, is assisting the family.

Memories may be shared at www.dunbarfunerals.com.