Scott Key

It is with saddened hearts we find ourselves writing a letter to notify you of another beloved family member’s passing. You might have to introduce yourself to Scott Key when he arrives. It is likely he won’t recognize you but he will be willing to listen. Perhaps you can explain to him if not to us why you might have called him when you did because as far as we are concerned, it wasn’t his time yet. Perhaps it happened by mistake? Maybe Garney (Gigi) or Papa needed his help? Or you simply had a project that needed the best man for the job? We can assure you, no matter what the reason, he is the best guy for any job. Any insight into our devastating loss you can share is greatly appreciated.

As you welcome him, please know we are doing our best to accept our new reality, life without him, and we wanted to ensure you were aware of the absolutely one of a kind, amazing man coming to you.

For your background, Scott was born in Wilmington NC on August 25, 1966 to Rebecca B. Key and Russell R. Key Jr. He was given the name Russell Radford Key III after his father and grandfather. However, shortly after his birth, he was given the name Scott by his great Aunt and Uncle Bessie and Jim Scott.

He is survived by his wife, Lauren Magnetti; his children Madeline Hannah Key (Maddie) and Richard Harrison Key (Harrison) who Scott shared with his former wife Jami Key; his mother Rebecca Key; his brother and wife Richard and Vanessa Key along with their children Gaby and Cullen Key; his Aunts and Uncles Page and Ed Sundy and Drs. Rick and Irene Barrow; and many other countless family members, colleagues and friends.

One of the many qualities we adored about Scott was his sense of humor. Paired with his decent acting skills, he became well-known for his Scott Key Book of Facts as well as in-person dissertations to defend his knowledge. He was the self-appointed expert of all things and somehow always had strong facts to support his claims. While sounding reasonable at first, they soon proved questionable. IYKYK

While Scott wasn’t known for finishing projects in his early days, we guarantee if there is a project you’d like to start, Scott is the partner you’d want. He is by far the hardest worker you will ever meet, capable of more than most of us. Almost anything he touches is in good hands. IYKYK

Scott’s pride and joy were his kids, Maddie and Harrison. The three often and memorably drove their Range Rovers through the back trails of Uwharrie Forest. Scott was the official “spotter” to ensure the kids and cars made it back in one piece. We just wish someone had done the same for Bertha, Scott’s prize possession on four wheels. They will miss each other. IYKYK

Scott was an amazing chef, having been trained at Johnson and Whales. He could be found in his backyard cooking on the charcoal grill or preparing his famous beef satay for the annual beach trip. He also enjoyed cooking family dinners and weekend breakfasts as often as he could! Trust us when we say you will be well fed. Your property will be well cared for as well. Scott was gifted at a lot of things, gardening being at the top of the list. He created the most beautiful Peace rose garden in his backyard in honor of his grandmother who he lovingly named Garney and Lauren’s mother Sharon. Come to think of it, we’d suggest you keep him in the gardens and away from bathroom remodels, though he did do a wonderful job on the last one he completed. IYKYK

Just in case he seems skeptical, we wanted you to have a few fun facts in your back pocket to ease him. With his kids leading the pack of his favorite things, Scott also loved the water. He loved driving. He loved (good) music. He loved the holidays. He loved pork belly. He loved laughing. He loved making others laugh. He valued hard work, optimism and staying cool, calm and collected. He loved his projects, both at home and at work. He loved his dogs and had a special bond with each of them. He was intrigued by birds, as is evidenced by the time he and Harrison spent volunteering at the local raptor center. He loved helping others wherever and whenever possible. He had one of the largest hearts and kindest souls you could ever imagine.

And he LOVED dessert.

In summary, you are gaining an unbelievably wonderful husband, father, son, grandson, brother, nephew and friend a person could ask for in Scott. There are not enough words to accurately describe what a gift he has been to us. We trust you will take care of him and love him as we have and continue to do.

A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held on August 11, 2026 from 12:00 – 3:00 (a few words to be spoken at 12:45pm) at:

Concorde Espresso Bar

8121 Market Street

Wilmington, NC 28411

Small lunch sandwiches will be provided. Please dress casually. We all know Scott would be in shorts and flip flops and would expect the same of us.

In lieu of flowers we request donations be sent to Friends of Uwharrie or Wounded Warrior Project.