Anna J. Key

Anna Jean Smith Key, age 88 of Muskogee, passed away at home on February 11, 2023 surrounded by her family. She was born in Centrahoma, OK on July 17, 1934 to JT and Stella Smith. The daughter of the town grocer, Anna attended elementary through high school at Centrahoma School. She went to East Central State Teachers College and Oklahoma A&M where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business in 1956. After graduating she moved to Dallas with a girlfriend and worked at Core Laboratories and National Supply Co. On June 1, 1958 in Coalgate, OK she married Jack R. Key whom she had known since childhood. They moved to Oklahoma City where she worked for Kerr-McGee Oil while helping Jack with tuition to complete his Civil Engineering degree at OU. When Jack began his career, Anna gave up hers to be near to home while raising their three children. They moved to Muskogee in 1971 to bring up their family in a smaller city. They were married nearly 65 years. "Ann" was a member of First United Methodist Church and was active in the sanctuary choir and UMW for many years. She enjoyed playing Mexican train dominoes with her women church friends. She was an avid gardener, an impeccable homemaker and was a prize-winning cook. Her passion for all birds, springer spaniel pups, peonies and fresh strawberry pie was infectious. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Jerry D Smith; half-brothers, Alva Smith, Vestle Smith and Arlis Smith; half-sisters, Rubye Klinglesmith Priest and Margie King. Ann is survived by her husband Jack of the home; children, Kevin Key and wife Rebecca of Boulder City, NV, Stephanie Espinoza and husband Brian of Phoenix AZ, and Matt Key and wife Megan of Denver CO; grandchildren, Hale Anna Espinoza, Landon Key, Julian Espinoza, Judson Key and Sam Key; nieces, Aliene Perkins (Tom), Jana Cagle (Curtis); nephew, Randy Smith; great niece, Julie McCall (Vince); great nephew, Steve Perkins (Lauri); and special cousin, Linda Andrews (Eddie); along with other family members and friends. Ann’s life will be celebrated at 10:30AM, Thursday, February 16, 2023 at First United Methodist Church with Rev. Patrick D. McPherson officiating. Private family interment will follow. The family requests memorials be made to First United Methodist Church of Muskogee Missions and Service Committee or the American Heart Association.

Anna J. Key

July 17, 1934 - February 11, 2023