George Lee Key, 86, of Cowen passed away Friday, June 15, 2018 at Webster County Memorial Hospital following an extended illness. He was born April 14, 1932 in Back Mountain, North Carolina, a son of the late Joe Ellis and Pearl Bower Key.

George was a retired UMWA coal miner with over 45 years of service, mostly with Island Creek Coal Company. He loved to hunt, fish, and camp; go ginsenging, ramp digging and hunting for mushrooms. He enjoyed gardening and canning. He also like to pan for gold and go metal detecting.

He is survived by his loving wife Ruth Jean Key, sons: Hubert (Judy) Key of North Carolina, Gary Key of Bolair, Keith (Connie) Key of Cowen, Charlie (Angie) Key of Virginia, Jerry Key of Cowen. Grandchildren: Brad, Lisa, Buster, Justin, Christopher, Travis Bull, Shelly, Trish, Pat, Shawn, Angie and Renae. 18 great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, brothers Walt, Dub, Harlan, Cleo and sister Donna Key preceded him in death.

Graveside services will be held at 1:00pm, Tuesday, June 19, 2018 at Woods Cemetery, Cowen, with Pastor Jim Varney officiating. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.morrisfuneralhomecowenwv.com

Services entrusted to the care of Morris Funeral Home, Cowen.