Mr. Tom Keys, Jr. AKA:

Passed 03/21/2024

Obituary For Mr. Tom Keys, Jr. AKA:

Tom “LC” Keys Jr., affectionately known as “Boot Buddy,” embarked on his remarkable journey of life on November 17, 1938, in Blountstown, FL (Calhoun County), born to the late Tom and Leona Keys. LC attended the public schools of Jackson County and confessed Christ at an early age at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church (Malone, FL).

At the age of 17, he ventured to Panama City, FL, where he became a member of The Silvertones, harmonizing with his brothers, the late Alonzo Keys, Sr., and James Keys, Sr.

It was on a trip to Talladega, AL, that he encountered his lifelong partner and soulmate, Shirley Allen, in 1960. Their love story turned a new page in 1964, when they exchanged vows and began a family that would grow to include six wonderful children. In 1969, he joined the popular quartet The Voices of Clouds, which led LC and his family to Rochester, NY. There, he became a faithful member and guitarist at Blake’s Temple First Born Church.

He embarked on a career as a plumber, completing an apprenticeship at Local 13 and serving as a Journeyman Plumber for over two decades. In a heartfelt return to his roots, LC answered the call to tend his aunt’s farm in Walton County, FL, leading him back to Panama City, FL where he was a faithful Deacon at Neal’s Temple First Born Church.

LC was a man of the outdoors, where he spent time hunting and fishing. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. His heart was as vast as the oceans he fished, always open and welcoming, a testament to a life well-lived in the service of others and the Lord.

Deacon Tom Keys, Jr., was called home on Thursday, March 21, 2024, surrounded by his wife, Shirley Keys and family.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Leona Keys; four brothers, Alonzo Keys III, Ernest Keys, Lamar Keys, Jimmy-Lee Keys; two sisters, Juanita Keys, Gussie Faye Keys; three children, Melvin Keys, Cynthia Houston, Gregory Keys; and two grandchildren, Lonnie Keys, Jr., Jeremy Keys.

He leaves behind a loving, devoted family to cherish his precious memories: his wife, Shirley A. Keys; five sons, Tom Keys III (Daphne, Rochester, NY), Cedric L. Keys (Panama City, FL), Lonnie C. Keys (Rochester, NY), Alijah Woodford (Johanna, Rochester,New York), Sedric Pittman (Sharon, Haines City, LA); two daughters, Sundra Keys (Warner Robins, GA), and Charlene Keys (Panama City, FL); a brother, Reverend James H. Keys (Dot, Pontiac, MI); five sisters, Creola Keys (Lynn Haven,FL), Emma Jones (Campbellton, FL), Bobbie Keys (Campbellton, FL), Ida Keys (Panama City, FL), Brenda Keys (Lynn Haven, FL); and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

LC’s life was a beautiful symphony of love, laughter, and faith, echoing through the generations and reminding us all of the power of compassion and community. As we gather to remember him, let us carry forward his legacy of kindness, his unwavering faith, and his joyous music, celebrating a life truly well-lived.

A public viewing will be Tuesday, April 2nd at Macedonia Baptist Church located at 717 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd, Panama City from 6-8p.m.

A Homegoing Celebration will be held Wednesday, April 3rd at 11am at Macedonia Baptist Church in Panama City with Senior Pastor Jesse Nelson and Superintendent David Woods officiating. Interment will follow in the Redwood Cemetery with arrangements entrusted to the Caring Staff at Battle Mortuary of Panama City, FL