Dr. Jacquelyn Key

Jackie, born Jacquelyn Anita West on March 22, 1959, to Mr. Judson and Mrs. Lucille West. Jackie embodied grace, kindness, and beauty. Growing up as the middle child, she developed a sense of fairness and peacemaking. Her inherent compassion led her to always show concern for others. Above all, Jackie treasured her husband, daughters, and four grandchildren. "I am grateful for the enduring love of family," Jackie expressed on Thanksgiving. Jackie was a very diligent student who graduated with pride from William A. Bass High School. She was actively involved in various extracurricular activities such as the National Honor Society, yearbook staff, and marching band. Prior to this, she attended Wesley Avenue Elementary School and Coan Middle School. Her nursing education began at Grady School of Nursing and she later transferred to Georgia State School of Nursing, where she obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. During her pursuit of a nursing degree, Jackie met Nathan Key, who would become her lifelong partner. Their bond was unbreakable, leading to their marriage in 1980, and they were fortunate to welcome two beautiful daughters, Natalie and Alyson. Jackie exemplified dedication as a mother, consistently providing support to her daughters and their friends in various endeavors. Her home became a welcoming haven for many, characterized by her generous hospitality. Jackie's commitment to the healthcare field extended for more than 35 years. She began her career at Dekalb General as the Head Nurse in the OB/GYN department and subsequently moved to Grady Hospital, where she held multiple roles, including nurse, charge nurse, supervisor, and leader within the OB/GYN department. After retiring from Grady, she continued her education in nursing, ultimately becoming a Professor at Gordon State University. Additionally, she engaged in PRN work at Pine Woods Behavioral Health Crisis Center. Her dedication to professional development was underscored by her earning a Master's degree in Nursing from Brenau University, followed by a Doctorate in Nursing from Grand Canyon University, which exemplified her commitment to lifelong learning and excellence in patient care. Dr. Key became a member of Chi Eta Phi Sorority Incorporated in 2014, where she took on the role of Gamma Chi Chapter Coordinator for the Hospitalities and Amenities Committee. She was dedicated to community service and the advancement of the nursing profession. Dr. Key was profoundly engaged in her community, devoting numerous hours to assist charities that supported unborn children, education, and her sorority. She cherished her family and had a passion for travel, consistently making an effort to remember each person's birthday and embodying the role of the aunt who intuitively understood your needs, often discreetly placing money in your hand without you having to request it. She was already in the process of organizing the Thanksgiving gathering for 2025, wholeheartedly embracing the philosophy that "the more, the merrier." She was not only a friend, leader, and activist, but also a devoted child of God. She encountered Christ at a young age and was raised in the Church of Atlanta Lighthouse when it was situated on Boulevard Avenue. In her early twenties, she attended Victory Tabernacle until its closure. Subsequently, God guided her to Second Mount Vernon under the leadership of Pastor Huntley, where she served as a pastor's aide and deaconess in two different locations. As one delves deeper into her life, it becomes evident that her motto of "Be Kind" is rooted in Scripture, specifically Galatians 5:22, which speaks of the Fruit of the Spirit. Jackie possessed a great enthusiasm for singing. Her musical repertoire encompassed a wide array of genres, such as R&B, jazz, hip-hop, and gospel, and she took considerable pleasure in both singing and dancing. Notably, Jackie was well-versed in the songs of both Lil Wayne and Whitney Houston. She was often invited to showcase her talents at various retirement celebrations. Many of us frequently contemplated the origins of her extraordinary ability. Her performances not only filled her with joy but also radiated happiness to everyone around her. Jackie's legacy will eternally reside in the hearts of her family, friends, colleagues, and the numerous individuals whose lives she positively influenced through her compassion and professionalism. She was preceded in death by her grandmother, Estella McGhee; her father, Judson Nathaniel West Sr., and her mother, Lucille West. She is survived by her husband, Nathan Key, her daughters, Natalie Sykes (Terrance), grandsons Hendrix and Kairo) and Alyson Adside (Colby), grandsons Austin and Dallas); her siblings, Deborah Williams, (Edward) Tina West, Sandra Hunt (Pastor Andrew Hunt), Judson West Jr. (Ann West), and Cheryl Lunn (Gregory), her cousin, Estella West along with a multitude of nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will cherish her memory. Jackie served as a second mother to many of her nieces and nephews: Terrence, Terrica, Andrew IV, Andrea, Brandon, Latesha, Judson III, Alex, Kesha, and Amber. Remember WWJD (What Would Jackie Do) She loved you all so much!! Jackie's legacy symbolizes compassion, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to the welfare of others. Her nurturing spirit and generous nature will be deeply missed by everyone fortunate enough to have known her. We love you Jackie!

Tributes

Dr. Jacquelyn Key

March 22, 1959 - March 1, 2025