Clark Edward Key
Clark Edward Key, a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed peacefully on Monday, January 26, 2026, at his home, with his brother, Gary, by his side. He was born November 22, 1961, in Surry County, the youngest child of Paul and Myrtle Haymore Key.
Clark was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law, Rick Stanley. He is survived by his sisters, Paula Stanley (Randy) of Pilot Mountain and Debbie Stanley of Dobson; his brother, Gary Key of Ararat; and his nieces and nephews, Meredith Simmons (Jarod) of Mount Airy, Will Stanley (Margot) of Raleigh, Rebekah Wetherell (Matt) of Cary, Casey Mitchell (Cindy), Landon Mitchell (Kayla), and Kenley Mitchell (Maggie), all of Dobson, Amber Bryant (Chad) of Elkin, and Shane Stanley (Christa) of Lowgap. He is also survived by sixteen great nieces and nephews, whom “Uncle Clark” loved dearly.
Clark lived a life defined by joy, connection, and an unmistakable zest for being with others. He had Down syndrome, but it was his vibrant spirit, generous heart, and boundless capacity for unconditional love that truly defined him. He shared that love openly and without limits with everyone he met.
He deeply cherished time with his family and friends and never missed an opportunity to be part of a gathering. Whether it was a holiday, birthday, or casual get-together, Clark was always the life of the party, bringing laughter, warmth, and a smile that could light up any room. He had a playful, affectionate nature and especially enjoyed the company of the ladies, often proudly talking about his girlfriend, Gretel Key. He delighted in the simple pleasures that made life fun. A devoted fan of wrestling, he also loved music and had an amazing memory for songs and artists. His favorite was Elvis, and Clark and his best friend, David Carlyle, especially enjoyed dressing as Elvis and entertaining friends and family.
Clark attended Surry County schools and then attended the Lifespan Day program, where he had been for more than 40 years. The clients and staff at Lifespan were family to Clark, and his best friends there loved and supported one another daily. Clark participated in Special Olympics and attended Eldora and Shoals Handicamps as long as he was able.
Clark made a profession of faith in Jesus Christ years ago, was baptized, and was a member of Sulphur Springs Baptist Church in Pilot Mountain.
Clark was blessed with a special friend, Tonya Horton Boggs, who loved and cared for him at Lifespan and beyond for 25 years. The family would like to extend special thanks to Jeff and Portia Tate for their love and care during the past few months, and Liberty Homecare and Hospice for their care.
A service of worship and celebration of Clark’s life will be held Friday, February 6, 2026, at 2:30 PM at Highland Park Baptist Church, with a family burial at Union Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery following the service. The family will receive friends Friday, February 6, 2026, from 1:00 until 2:30 PM at Highland Park Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that memorials in Clark’s memory be directed to Lifespan, Inc., P.O. Box 19135, Charlotte, NC 28219; or Eldora Handicamp, c/o Kevin Simpson, 1994 Twin Oaks Road, Elkin, NC 28621.
Moody Funeral Services in Mount Airy is serving the family.
