Kenneth James Key, 63, passed away on January 19, 2021 at his home in Hemphill, Texas.  He was born and raised in Lafayette, Louisiana.

James began his career as a roustabout in the oilfields of South Louisiana at the age of 16.  He retired in 2009 after 36 years in the oil industry.   During his long career he spent time working in Europe, Japan and Africa.

He was an avid fisherman and loved spending time with his friends on his boat or kicked back fishing on the banks.  He also loved to hunt and spending time outdoors.

James loved to cook for his friends and his culinary skills are legendary.   He will be well remembered by his friends and neighbors in the lake community he lived in because he was always lending a helping hand or providing food to those in need.

He is survived by two sisters, Margaret Key of Lafayette, LA and Elizabeth Key Steverson of Roswell, GA; two nephews and one niece, Christopher Breaux and Sherri Fargo of Lafayette, LA and Daron Pellerin of Tucker, GA; seven great nephews and niece; Hunter Guillory, Alex Guillory, Claudia Breaux, Chase Guillory, Huck Breaux, Phoenix Le and Ozzy Le.

James was preceded in death by his parents, the former Esther Powell and Howard Key, both residents of Lafayette, LA.

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held later this year.

Cremation arrangements were handled by Starr Funeral Home of Hemphill.

Condolences can be made and guest book may be signed at starrfuneralhome.com.