James Carroll Key

James Carroll Key , 78 entered into eternal rest on February 1, 2026 at Shanti Niketan Hospice Home in Glasgow after a sudden illness.

He was born at home in Dry Fork, KY on July 25th to Carl and Myrtie Key and remained a life long member of the Austin, Tracy, and Fountain Run communities. In 1970 he married Virginia Lynn North who preceded him in death in December 2021. Carroll retired from South Central Rural Telephone Company after 35 years with his final position as the Construction Supervisor.

Carroll was a faithful member of the Lord’s church serving as an elder at the Poplar Log church of Christ for several years. He was a board member of the Austin Tracy Fire department and a member of the Barren County Cattleman’s Association.

Carroll had a saying that he reminded his children often: “The only thing you have in this world is your name.” He not only taught that but he lived it through hard work and not only loving his family, neighbors, and friends but in helping any stranger that he ever came across in need. He shared his love for the Lord and his desire to help others know the Lord freely.

Carroll is survived by his daughter, Shelly and son-in-law, David Groce, his son, Matt and daughter-in-law, Darci Key. 4 grandchildren, Josh (Julie) Groce, Haley (Chris) Stewart, Holly (Ethon) Harper, and Blaye (Madison) Key. 6 great grandchildren, Aubree and Ryker Groce, Auden, Ashton, and Henry Harper, and Harrison Stewart. Five special friends that were more like brothers, Jerry Wyatt, Johnny Kinslow, Joel Woodcock, Steve Bulle and Wayne Parsley. Also, numerous nephews and nieces that he loved as his own especially his brother’s children, Eddie, Danny, Pam, and Dennis Key.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by 1 brother, Rondal Key and 2 sisters, Elizabeth Huckleberry and Agnes Osborne.

The funeral service will be held at Hatcher and Saddler Funeral Home on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 1 PM with burial in Happy Valley Memorial Gardens. Visitation will begin Friday, February 6, at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Shanti Niketan Hospice Home.