Joe Nathan Keys

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Joe Nathan Keys, born on May 20, 1945, in Collins, Mississippi, to Elizabeth and Oscar Keys.

Joe and Charlotte Keys celebrated 22 years of marriage, having been joined in matrimony on December 22, 2002.

Joe's spiritual journey began at Bay View Baptist Church in San Diego, California, where he united in June 1983, under the guidance of Pastor Timothy J. Winters. During his time at Bay View Baptist Church, Joe actively served on the Men's Usher Board, earned an Usher Certificate from the Progressive District Association, and contributed to various church ministries, including working with the children's church and the food bank.

In March 2006, Joe and Charlotte Keys relocated to Corpus Christi, Texas, and became valued members of Calvary First Baptist Church, under the leadership of Bishop C.E. Richardson Sr. There, Joe served as an armor bearer for Bishop Richardson, a Deacon, and answered his calling to become a minister on April 11, 2013. Joe's dedication extended to serving as the Superintendent of Sunday school, President of the Brotherhood, and singing in the choir and Men's Chorus. His influence also reached beyond the church, serving as the president of the Brotherhood for the American Baptist Western District General Association and vice president of Brotherhood for the Body of Christi Christian Believers Convention International.

Joe's career included 22 years as a truck driver, work with the Water Department in Parker, AZ, and 14 1/2 years of service at San Diego State University. Known for his exceptional dart-playing skills, Joe won the National Championship Dart Tournament in 1999. His interests also encompassed sports, especially cheering for his favorite team, the LA Lakers, as well as enjoying western movies, game shows, boxing, kickboxing, fishing, bowling, darts, camping, and desert outings for target shooting. Above all, Joe treasured time with his family and friends, spreading joy through his love of conversation and humor.

Joe Nathan Keys departed this life on Sunday, February 25, 2024, leaving behind cherished memories and a legacy of love. He is preceded in death by his father, Oscar Keys, mother, Elizabeth Duckworth, brothers Nathaniel Keys and Al Nathan Keys, and sisters Dorothy Carr and Alice Cardigan.

He is survived by his loving wife, Charlotte Keys; sisters Hannah (Gardner) Jordan of Sandusky, Ohio, Patricia (David) Rich of Pensacola, Florida, Etta Turner of San Diego, California; sons Joe Jr. (Robin) Keys, David Tucker Jr., Michael Smith; daughters Birdie Keys, Tammy Keys, Debra Owens, Audrey (Tilson) Dyer; 7 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.