Captain Wilson Denver "Denny" Key, USN (Ret.)

Captain Wilson Denver “Denny” Key, United States Navy (Retired), passed away peacefully on October 2, 2025, after a courageous battle with ALS. He leaves behind a legacy of quiet strength, devoted love, and a lifelong pursuit of knowledge.

Born on June 22, 1940, in Hays, North Carolina, Denver was the youngest child of Charles “Roy” Key and Ruth Gregory Key, growing up under the care and influence of four older sisters. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1963 and married his high school sweetheart, Alece Haynes, on the very same day—an early glimpse into the lifelong partnership they would share.

A distinguished Naval Aviator, Denver flew the A-4 Skyhawk during the Vietnam War. In 1967, he was shot down near Hanoi and endured more than five years as a prisoner of war. He returned home in 1973 and continued his service with distinction, ultimately retiring as a Captain in 1993 after 30 years of honorable service.

Denver earned a Master’s degree in Physics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and later served as Dean of Math and Science at the U.S. Naval Academy. After retiring from the Navy, he continued to share his love of learning by teaching physics and astronomy at St. Johns River Community College, inspiring countless students with his passion for the night sky and relentless curiosity.

A man of deep and thoughtful faith, Denver served as a deacon and youth leader at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church in Arlington, Virginia. He later became a devoted member of First Baptist Church of Orange Park, Florida. He was known for asking the tough questions in Sunday school—not from doubt, but from a sincere belief that truth-seeking was an act of faith.

Denver and Alece shared 57 years of marriage, raising two sons and building a family life rich with competitive family games, cross-country road trips and neighborhood camping/canoeing adventures. When Alece was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, Denver became her steadfast caregiver for ten years, embodying a quiet, sacrificial love until her passing in 2020. In 2022, he found companionship and joy again through his marriage to Sandra “Sandy” Price.

Though reserved in demeanor, Denver’s love ran deep. He was a steady and devoted presence in the lives of his children and grandchildren, offering unwavering support and affection. Even as his health declined, he met each challenge with grace, determination, and dignity.

He is survived by his wife, Sandra “Sandy” Key; his sons, Brian (Beth) and Michael (Yelena); grandchildren, Robyn, Ethan, Erin, Olivia, and Alexander; his sister, Ann; and a wide circle of former students, fellow service members, and friends who were touched by his humility, wisdom, and strength.

Denver Key’s life was not measured in accolades, but in presence—in the courage to ask hard questions, to love deeply, and to keep looking up at the stars.

A memorial service will be held in Denver's honor at First Baptist Church Orange Park, on Saturday October 18, 2025 at 11:00AM. Family will receive friends starting at 10:00AM. Dr. David Tarkington will be officiating.