Paul Key

Robert Paul Key, age 98 of Paris, TN, passed away on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at his residence.

Paul was born in Cottage Grove, TN, on December 9, 1927, to the late Novice Bryan Key, and the late Cordelia Smith Key.

He married Ruth Reynolds Key on December 10, 1957, in Booneville, MS. Ruth survives of Paris, TN.

Paul was a member of Mixie Baptist Church. He was loved by everyone and known for how kind he was. He enjoyed farming, gardening, and working on cars and tractors.

He worked as a machinist and mechanic for Caterpillar, Inc., in Peoria, Illinois, before returning to Paris, Tennessee, where he operated a service station off Highway 641 North. He later worked as a mechanic for the Paris Buick Dealership before joining Midland Brake, where he worked as a machinist until his retirement.

In addition to his wife, Paul is survived by three children, Joy Guevara, Lynn (Helen) Key, and Kathy Key, all of Paris, TN; one grandson, Bob Key; and one sister-in-law, Dorothy Gallimore; and his beloved dog, Sissy.

Along with his parents, he was also preceded in death by four siblings, Novice Key, Lucille Key, Ruby Key Shankle, and Lucy Key Hosford; and one son-in-law, Greg Guevara.

Ridgeway Funeral Home, 201 Dunlap Street, Paris, TN, 38242, is handling the arrangements. His remains are to be cremated with a private graveside service to be held at Key Cemetery on Wednesday, November 11, 2026.