Deborah Kay Williams Key, 60, of Cherry Log, GA, passed on April 8, 2023, just days after celebrating her 40th anniversary with her husband, Rodney Key. Her daughter, Sarah Key, cared for her while she fought a yearlong battle with pancreatic cancer. Her cat Callie stayed by her bedside to comfort her until she passed. She is also survived by her son, Michael Key of Dayton, OH, siblings Donald (Lisa) and James (Janet) Williams and Linda (Kirk) Cantrell of Calhoun, GA, and beloved nieces and nephews. Debbie joins her parents, Dorothy Leatherwood and Fred Williams, in heaven.

Debbie grew up in Epworth, GA, graduated from Fannin High School in 1981, and completed nursing school in 1991. She loved being a mother, aunt, and sister-in-law and accomplished extensive research on the Leatherwood and Key ancestry. Debbie had a playful sense of humor and infectious laugh. She had a gift for finding and befriending individuals who needed love and companionship, stayed in constant communication with family and friends, and had a special love for animals, children, and the elderly, serving as a substitute teacher for Special Ed and a caregiver to her loved ones. She was a testament to 1 John 4:7; "Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God."

She asked that her cremains be spread at the resting place of her pets, particularly her cat, Maggie, and dog, Rascal. The family thanks Appalachian Hospice, Piedmont Mountainside Hospital, and close family and friends for their care. A Celebration of Life event will be held before the new year. Debbie requested donations be made in her name to the Alzheimer's Association at www.alz.org.