Claude Jackson Key

AIKEN, SC - CLAUDE JACKSON KEY, 87, beloved husband of Maria Gallos Key, passed away Thursday, December 2, 2021 at Aiken Regional Medical Centers.

A native of Aiken, Claude was a son of the late Viola and Jessie James Key.  He was a 4 year veteran of the U.S. Army, serving in Germany.  Claude then joined the U.S. Air Force, serving in Korea and Vietnam, retiring after 20 years as TSGT.  After the service, Claude returned to Aiken and worked at the Savannah River Site.  He was a member of Talatha Baptist Church.  He was a member of Aiken Masonic Lodge #156, Scottish Rite of Freemasonry and American Legion Post 0169.  Claude loved having fish fries and camping.  He always looked forward to his July 4^th family reunion barbecue.

Surviving are his wife, Maria; a daughter, Viola Bell (Billy), of Windsor; two sons, Robert G. “Bobby” Key, Jesse M. Key (Vickie), all of New Ellenton; 8 grandchildren, Jason Key (Lynn), Justin Key (Lindy), Patricia Lamar (Scott), Robin Bell, Sylvia Bell, Gene Hodges (Kacie), Jason Hodges (Rachel), Nick Gallos (Rebecca); 14 great-grandchildren and a number of cousins, nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Hildegard, second wife, Louise in 2009; four sisters, Lucille Porter, Jesse Ford, Elizabeth Porter Coats and Mary Key.  

The family will receive friends Saturday evening, December 4^th from 6 until 8 PM at Shellhouse – Rivers Funeral Home.

The funeral service will be Sunday afternoon, December 5^th at 3 o’clock at Talatha Baptist Church with The Revs. Jordan Bird and David Little officiating.  Interment will follow in the church cemetery.  Pallbearers will be Jason Key, Justin Key, Gary Miller, Billy Key, Charles Key, Gary Hagan and John Porter.  Honorary Pallbearers will be the Friendship Sunday School Class.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Talatha Baptist Church’s Building Fund, 361 Talatha Church Rd., Aiken, SC 29803

SHELLHOUSE – RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, 715 EAST PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC