Edward F. Croker once said, “When a man becomes a fireman his greatest act of bravery has been accomplished. What he does after that is all in the line of work.” This quote embodies the service and dedication of Lt. Donald Reid Key, II.
A special ceremony will take place on Sunday, February 4, at 3 pm at the Public Safety Memorial Garden located between Logan and Van Dusen Halls on the campus of Sandhills Community College. This service will recognize the late Lt. Donald Reid Key, II of the Whispering Pines Fire and Rescue Department.
Key was born in Pinehurst to Darlene Parker Key and the late Donald Reid Key. He graduated from Union Pines High School in 2003 and subsequently, earned a degree in Automotive Technology from Sandhills Community College. As a result, Key was employed as the Head Technician at Leith Auto Group. Later, he obtained his NC Firefighter 1 and 2 certifications through the Office of the State Fire Marshall.
Member, deacon, and worship director at New Home Baptist Church, Key also served his community by coaching youth baseball and basketball. According to those close to him, Key considered his two greatest accomplishments in life to be his two children and he cherished time with his family. Key’s wife Carrie and his children, Jackson and Kinsington continue to make their home in Moore County. Key is also survived by his mother, Darlend Parker Key; his grandmother, Arlene Fipps; his sister, Jenna; his father-in-law, Lee, and mother-in-law, Linda.
“We are honored to bring this ceremony to our community on February 4. Please join us as we pay tribute to the honorable service of Lt. Donald Reid Key, II,” said Michelle Bauer, director of the Fire and Rescue Continuing Education program at Sandhills Community College.
Contributed
