James Rufus Key, Jr.

Funeral services for Mr. James Rufus Key, Jr. will be held Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Liberty Baptist Church, DeKalb, MS at 1:00 PM, with Brother Joshua Drury and Brother Dennis Robinson officiating. The family will receive guests from 11:00 AM to 12:45 PM at the church prior to the service, with the burial to follow. Robert Barham Family Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with arrangements.

Mr. Key, 87, of DeKalb, MS passed away Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at Ochsner Rush Health, surrounded by his family.

He returned to his farm in Kemper County, after retirement from the Meridian Fire Department, where he spent the remainder of his life enjoying the outdoors with his garden, hunting and fishing. He was a beloved member of the community and dedicated to serving his church. His love for his Savior and his family were evident in the life he lived, and he was a friend to all.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 65 years, Janelle Key; his son, Alan Key; daughter Polly Talley (Brad); grandchildren, Brandon Key, Blake Key and Hailey Talley; nephews, Tim Sollie, Scott Sollie, Lester Poole, David Key, and Bob Collins; niece, Tammy Lynn Harris.

He is preceded in death by his parents, James Key, Sr and Lena Mae; his sisters, Gwendolyn Carmichael and Kathryn Milsaps; brother, Dewitt Key; nephews, Jeff Poole and Ray Collins; niece, Teresa Ivy.

Pallbearers will be James Hurtt, Ryan Clay, Tim Sollie, Scott Sollie, Bruce Clay and Randy Evans, with honorary pallbearer, Bill Clay.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff, nurses and physicians of both Ochsner Rush Health and Ochsner Stennis Health for the care they have provided.

Online condolences may be expressed at robertbarhamffh.com.