Our great patriarch, Jimmy Charles Keys, affectionately known as JC Keys, passed away August 9, 2026, in Childress. He was born the third oldest of ten children to Earl Milas Keys and Mary Maude Furr September 11, 1932, in their home in Tell, Texas.
A gifted athlete, JC left home and supported himself the last two years of high school so he could participate in football and track at Childress High School where he graduated in 1950. Giving up a track scholarship to Texas Tech University, he enlisted in the AirForce where he served as a military police officer at Kirtland Airforce Base. It was soon discovered he was colorblind and therefore he could not accomplish his goal of becoming a pilot.
It was in Albuquerque where he met the love of his life, Dollie Gertrude Wood, and they were married on March 19, 1955. Having a love for his hometown, the couple soon settled in Childress and made it their home. He served in several different occupations while ranching and farming on the side. Earlier occupations included owning and running a gas station and typesetting for the Childress Reporter, but he is most fondly known as the “Dr. Pepper man”, being the top soft drink distributor in the area. He even enlisted the help of his children in this endeavor. Later in life, he served as a correctional officer, known as “Pops”.
Being an athlete himself, he loved to watch sports, and his favorite team was the Bobcats of Childress High. Every Friday night for their date night, JC and Dollie could be found at the football stadium, gym, or baseball field supporting the Childress Bobcats. His posterity had many athletes, and he spent many years following all their sports, sporting his blue “good-luck” hat. He was very proud when told his family had more all-state athletes than any other family in Childress.
With a great love for the outdoors, JC spent many hours fishing and hunting, going on special trips, proudly bringing home his trophies. It was always a big competition when it came to fishing. Most of their family vacations involved meeting up with family at a lake to fish and ski. He enjoyed his animals and had horses, a donkey, and cows. They had many pets - dogs (typically Boxer bulldogs), cats, pigs and even a bobcat. Earlier in life he broke horses and later in life he raised cattle.
JC loved the Savior, Jesus Christ, and was a faithful pioneer, being instrumental in acquiring a building for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints where he served in many capacities, including the Amarillo Stake High Council, scoutmaster for many years, and even as branch president for ten years while also working and raising his family.
All were welcome at his house, and the table was many times set for more than family. He was a dad to more than his own. Everyone loved to hear his deep southern accent and hear his unique laugh. His grandchildren especially loved his storytelling. Occasionally his tough demeanor would come through but was followed by a hand of kindness and forgiveness. He has loved and has been deeply loved and will be greatly missed. His legacy will continue to bless all our lives and the Childress community forever.
He is survived by his wife of seventy-one years, Dollie, and his four children, Lance Keys and wife Sandra, Mark Keys and wife Marilyn, Edna Jones and husband the late Richie Jones, and Natallie Wages, twenty-two grandchildren, seventy-three great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, eight siblings, one grandson and one great-grandson.
Services were held Thursday, August 13, 2026, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
