Johnny Wayne Key

Graveside service for Johnny Wayne Key, 70, of Garrison, will be at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, September 22, 2021, at Holly Springs Cemetery, with Shak Arrington officiating.

Mr. Key passed away on Tuesday, September 14, 2021, in Moneta, Wyoming. He was born February 16, 1951, in Cleveland, Texas.

Johnny was a simple and hardworking man who loved his country and spoke his mind.  Johnny’s patriotism stemmed from his great knowledge of history and his love for his fellow man.  Johnny was a country boy to the core and spend his lifetime in East Texas.  He raised his children to know the love of Christ and the value of a hard days work.  He also instilled in them that if you wanted something, you had to get it yourself. 

He and Sherry spent 32 years by each other’s side and spent most of their time with the kids and running the successful business Johnny established in 1975.  Wanda Drilling was where Johnny thrived.  He was great at what he did and was so happy to have it run by family.  He was a driller and installer and held a master license. 

Johnny loved Sherry and his kids endlessly and without boundaries.  He dedicated himself to being a Boy Scout Leader for several years with his boys.  He also made sure his daughter had the protection that only a father could provide.  Although not many knew it, Johnny was versed in scripture and loved his Lord and Savior.  Johnny also loved to hear the grands when they showed up yelling “Pawpaw” which was the best thing anyone could call him.  Johnny had many crazy stories from his life and he loved telling those as well.  

When Johnny wasn’t busy with the kids or with his company, he found time to be a Hunter Safety Instructor for the State of Texas and was extremely dedicated to the Sons of Confederate Veterans, of which he was a lifetime member.

Johnny was honored to have bravely served his country in the United States Marine Corp and fought in the Vietnam War.  He was discharged in 1970 after receiving several medals and badges, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Cross Gallantry, Combat Action Ribbon, Rifle Expert Badge and Pistol Expert Badge.  Johnny’s military experience also taught him about the infamous cannon.  He enjoyed each year as everyone gathered for the Rally at the Flag in April for him to sound the cannon and Johnny did that with pride!

In 1992, Johnny and Sherry purchased their first property in Wyoming.  Johnny loved it there so much.  The hunting was always prosperous but the best thing was the peacefulness and serenity that the experience yielded.  It is truly fitting that he spent his last day at the place he dearly loved.

Johnny is survived by his wife, Sherry Elisabeth (Pinkston) Key; children, Jason Wayne Key & fiancé, Leslie, and Morgan Lauren (Key) Weems and & husband, JT;  grandchildren, Hunter Key & wife, Madison, Kane Allen Key, Savannah Key, Raylan Weems, Stetson Weems; and great grandchild, Kennedy.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Robbie Powel Key and Mildred Lucile (Stanley) Key, and son, Justin Wade Key.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Toys for Tots, Marine Toys for Tots.

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