The community of Sylvania, Alabama, and the greater DeKalb County region are joined in a state of profound and heavyhearted mourning following the passing of Roger Lee Key on May 6, 2026. A man whose life was a vibrant testament to resilience, duty, and sincere kindness, Roger’s departure has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the many neighbors who valued his presence. His passing marks the end of a legacy defined by military service, hard work at the local sawmill, and a deep-seated devotion to his loved ones.
In Sylvania, Roger is being remembered first and foremost as a sincere and kind-hearted individual who navigated his life with a spirit of quiet strength and a steady grace. Known for his meaningful impact as a Vietnam War veteran, he served his country with distinction as an Army mechanic stationed in Germany. Locally, he was affectionately known by the nickname “Seahorse,” a title earned during his dedicated years of labor at Freddy Glover’s Sawmill. To those who knew him best, he was a source of constant loyalty and light—a faithful husband, a guiding stepfather, and the beloved “PawPaw” to a generation of grandchildren who looked to him for warmth and wisdom.
The news of his passing has sparked a period of solemn reflection across Alabama. Tributes shared by his stepchildren and extended family describe a man who earned the love of his community through his genuine personality and the consistency of his character. The outpouring of sympathy serves as a testament to the shattering reach of this loss, as neighbors gather to share stories of his work ethic and honor the legacy of a life well-lived. His absence is now felt in the quiet spaces of Sylvania, where his warmth once provided a sense of connection and peace to his family.
As the Key family navigates this difficult season of grief, they find comfort in the belief that Roger is now reunited with his beloved wife. He is being remembered with heartfelt respect as a cherished resident and veteran whose spirit will be forever honored.
