Mr. Ronald Douglas Key

KEY, Mr. Ronald Douglas - Age 70, passed away Thursday, April 30, 2026 at Henry Ford - Detroit, MI. Family hour 10:00 AM Friday, May 15, 2026, from the Chapel of Lawrence E. Moon Funeral Home, 906 W. Flint Park Blvd., with funeral service commencing at 11:00 AM. Interment Lovedale Cemetery, 5175 E. Bristol Rd., Flint, MI. Friends and pallbearers will assemble at the funeral home 10:00 AM Friday. Mr. Key will lie in state in the Chapel of Lawrence E. Moon Funeral Home, 906 W. Flint Park Blvd. and may be viewed from 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM Thursday Today, we gather to honor and celebrate the life of Ronald Douglas Key — a man whose life was rooted in hard work, family, resilience, faith, and love. A man whose presence brought strength to those around him and whose legacy will continue living through the people he loved most. Ronald was born on December 19, 1955, in Flint to Lawson Miller Key and Annie Marie Key, Ronald Douglas Key was raised in faith and found Christ at an early age. He attended Zion Hill Bible Church and carried those values of strength, love, and perseverance throughout his life. Ronald attended Flint Public Schools and later furthered his education at Mott Community College. He was a man who understood sacrifice and dedication. He spent years working at Kelsey-Hayes Plant and General Motors before later becoming known throughout the community while driving for Redball Cab and Northside Cab Company. Ronald believed in taking care of business, standing on his word, and doing whatever he could for the people he loved. But beyond the work and responsibilities was the man his family knew best. Ronald loved cooking, dancing, fishing, laughing, and bringing people together. He enjoyed the simple things in life — being surrounded by family, sharing stories, creating memories, and enjoying the people who meant the most to him. His presence carried strength, wisdom, humor, and protection. He was the kind of man who could make people feel safe simply by being there. To his son, Jalen, Ronald was a protector, a provider, and a best friend. Even through difficult times and years that were unfairly lost, their bond remained unbreakable. Jalen carries not only his father’s name, but also his strength, resilience, and spirit. There is pain in knowing there were years taken away, but also deep gratitude for the final chapter they were able to share together — moments that included becoming a grandfather, family gatherings, holidays, laughter, and love that will never be forgotten. And to his daughter, Sharmeka, Ronald’s love was equally deep and meaningful. A father’s love leaves a permanent imprint on his daughter’s heart, and Ronald’s presence, guidance, and care will continue to live within her forever. Though words cannot fully ease the pain of losing a father, the memories, lessons, and love he gave her will remain a source of strength throughout her life. One of Ronald’s greatest joys was becoming a grandfather to King Matthias Thee Great Key. The pride and happiness he carried in that role brought light to his life and created memories his family will cherish forever. Ronald Douglas Key leaves behind to cherish his memory: his son, Jalen Key (Savannah Caesar) of Flint; his daughter, Sharmeka Key of Caro, MI; and his beloved grandson, King Matthias Thee Great Key; sisters, Vera Styles, Camellia Key, Barbara Key of Flint, Lenoir (Willie) Owens of Memphis, TN and Charlotte Jones of Saginaw; his brothers Willie (Ernestine) Key of Memphis, TN, Glenn (Betty) Key, and James Key of Flint; sister-in-law, Romel Key; special friends Sheletta Segrest, and Tammy Edwards; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and his Oak Park community family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawson Miller Key and Annie Marie Key; his sisters Catherine (Charles) O’Neill, Pamela (William) Lockhart, and Bertha (Maurice) Shumpert; and his brothers Clarence Key Sr. and Arthur Key. Though our hearts are heavy today, Ronald’s legacy will continue through the family he loved, the lessons he taught, and the memories that will forever remain alive in our hearts. Some people leave behind possessions, while others leave behind impact. Ronald Douglas Key left behind love, strength, wisdom, and a family forever shaped by his presence. And if Ronald were here today, some of us can still hear him saying the words that carried his confidence, humor, and spirit: “It’s your world… I’m just living in it.”

Mr. Ronald Douglas Key

December 19, 1955 - April 30, 2026