Roger Key

Roger Alan Key, a devoted husband, father, and deeply respected member of the Lubbock community, passed away after a lifetime defined by generosity, integrity, and steadfast service to others. He was born on January 3, 1951, in Lubbock, Texas, to Mary Ellis Maedgen Key and Marion Terry Key. In his youth, he enjoyed many summers at Camp Longhorn and trips with his family. Roger grew up with the values that would guide him throughout his life—kindness, commitment, and an unwavering dedication to helping those around him.

Roger married the love of his life, Ann Schoenvogel Key, with whom he shared a marriage rooted in faith, laughter, and mutual support. Together they raised three children, Katherine Ellis Key, Alan Clifton Key, and Allison Ann Key all of whom were the pride and joy of Roger’s life. His family remembers him as a gentle, giving man whose greatest happiness came from their accomplishments and companionship.

A man of considerable intellect and humility, Roger graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 1973 with a B.B.A. in Finance while serving as President of Lambda Chi Fraternity before earning his J.D. from Texas Tech University School of Law in 1976. He was later honored as an Honorary Member of the Order of the Coif in 1999, an acknowledgment of his dedication to excellence in the law.

Roger was a third generation lawyer and banker. For nearly five decades, he was a committed and respected attorney, practicing primarily throughout West Texas. As a partner in Key Terrell & Seger, LLP he built a reputation for fairness, professionalism, and compassionate advocacy. He was admitted to practice before numerous courts, including the United States Supreme Court, and his legal career took him not only across Texas but occasionally across the country. Roger always believed that the law was a means of service, and he approached his work with the same generosity he showed in all aspects of his life.

Roger gave deeply of his time and talents through leadership roles in professional organizations, including serving as Chairman the State Bar of Texas, President of the Lubbock County Bar Association, President of the Texas Association of Bank Counsel, Secretary and Treasure of the West Texas Bankruptcy Bar Association, and Chairman of the original Methodist Hospital. He was on the Development Committee and on the Executive Chancellor's Council at The University of Texas at Austin. He was awarded the Distinguished Services Award from Texas Tech University School of Law. He was known for bringing people together, whether hosting a dinner for the nine sitting justices of the Texas Supreme Court or speaking at the investiture of federal judges. His colleagues admired him not only for his accomplishments, but also for his warmth, integrity, and genuine care for others.

In addition to his legal career, Roger was a lifelong leader in banking, serving on the Board of Directors of Lubbock National Bank beginning in 1981 and later as its Chairman of the Board. He also played an instrumental role in the leadership of Commerce National Financial Services, Inc. His passion for responsible stewardship and his commitment to his community made him a trusted figure in West Texas banking.

Roger’s dedication extended far beyond his profession. His faith was central to his life, and as an active member of First United Methodist Church of Lubbock, he held numerous leadership roles, offering his time and guidance in service to his congregation. He approached every responsibility with kindness, humility, and a desire to make life better for others.

Above all, Roger will be remembered for his kindness. He had a gift for making people feel valued, appreciated, and supported. Whether offering legal guidance, volunteering his time, or simply sharing a warm conversation, he touched the lives of countless people. His impact will continue to be felt through the many organizations he strengthened, the community he shaped, and the family he loved so dearly.

Roger was an avid lover of hunting and outdoors. He cherished any opportunity to spend time outside, especially when surrounded by friends or family. He leaves behind a legacy of service, generosity, and love—one that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered with gratitude and affection.

Roger is survived by his wife Ann Schoenvogel Key and children Katherine Ellis Key, Alan Clifton Key, and Allison Ann Key.

Family: Charlene & Terry Key, Paula & Charles Key, Sarah & Howard Key, Liz & Robert (Bob) Schoenvogel, Nancy & Jim Edsel, Susan & Tanny Toomey, along with many nieces and nephews and grand nieces and nephews.

Services will be held at First United Methodist Church, Lubbock, Texas, on Saturday, November 22nd at 10:00 AM. The family will gather for a private burial at the Lubbock Cemetery.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks to all who supported Roger throughout his life and career, and invites friends to celebrate his life with the same spirit of kindness and fellowship he embodied every day.