Merrill Wayne Key, age 90, of Marion, formerly of Swayzee, went to be with the Lord at 6:59 am on Tuesday, October 19, 2021, at York Place in Marion. He was born in Swayzee, Indiana, on Wednesday, June 10, 1931, to Wayne and Ethel (Thrailkill) Key. He was married to his loving wife, Virginia (Petro) Key, on November 7, 1952.
Merrill graduated from Swayzee High School in 1949. He had always had a love for farming and, therefore, made this his lifelong vocation. He enjoyed gardening, camping, and going on family vacations. He also enjoyed watching Oak Hill basketball. One of his greatest loves and passions, however, was missions. He was very active in Men for Missions, OMS Missions, and Christian Service International, having served on missions trips to Haiti and Jamaica. Merrill was a member of Maple Run Friends Church.
Survivors include his wife, Virginia Key; sons, John (Laura) Key of Swayzee and Barry (Sally) Key of Marion; daughter, Debbie (Mike) Hyman of Flora; grandsons, Eric (Cathy) Hyman, Andy (LeeAnn) Hyman, Chad (Tanya) Key, Cory Key, Chris (April) Key, Sam Key, Jeff (Nicole) Davis, Robert Davis, Joe Davis, and Phillip (Nancy) Davis; granddaughters, Jana (Aaron) Anderson and Abby (Michael) Strader; 22 great-grandchildren; and son-in-law, John Davis.
He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Nancy Davis; and brothers, Ivan Key and Jean Key.
The family will receive visitors from 12:00 noon to 1:00 pm on Saturday, October 23, 2021, at Maple Run Friends Church, 4460 W. 400 S., Marion, IN.
Immediately following the time of visitation, a service to celebrate Merrill’s life will begin at 1:00 pm with his son, Pastor John Key, officiating. Burial will take place at Thrailkill Cemetery.
Arrangements are entrusted to Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral Service, Rybolt Chapel, 314 N. Washington St., Swayzee, IN 46986.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Christian Service International, 840 Daniel Dr., Kokomo, IN 46901.
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