Tom Key

COOKEVILLE CHAPEL - Thomas Jackson Key, age 87 of Cookeville, passed away on Sunday September 6, 2026, at Cookeville Regional Medical Center. Born in Springfield, Illinois, on August 1, 1939, he lived a long and hardworking life marked by dedication to his trade, loyalty to his family, and a steady presence that those who knew him will not soon forget.

Tom spent most of his life in construction and was the retired co-owner of Reliable Building Service in Cookeville. He took pride in his work, and among the milestones early in his career was his work on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, an accomplishment that remained meaningful to him. His years in construction reflected a lifetime of labor, skill, and perseverance. He was a man who understood the value of hard work and the satisfaction that came from seeing a job well done.

He was known as a stubborn man, but that quality was part of what made him who he was. It spoke to his determination, his firm sense of purpose, and the way he carried himself through life. Those close to him knew him as someone who did things his own way and stood by what he believed. He also had a fondness for motorcycles and enjoyed the spirit of the road. On the CB radio, he was known by the handle “Grizzley,” a name that suited him well and reflected something of his strong and memorable nature.

Mr. Key was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, a chapter of his life that spoke to his sense of duty and service. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 135 in Cookeville and the Cookeville Masonic Lodge #266 F&AM, associations that were part of his life and reflected the friendships and fellowship he valued.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas E. Key and Dorothy Alberta Key; his wife, Nancy Key; daughter, Deborah Anne Lewis; sister, Sherrie Younce; and niece Janice Burkhead.

He leaves behind his children, Teresa Truong (Huy), Jessie Patterson Jr. (Stephanie), Valorie Britt, and Margaret Barche (Luis Sung); his sister Beverly Mathews; his nephews Robert (Nikki) Mathews and Tommy Taylor. He was also the beloved grandfather of 17 grandchildren, including Keylin Truong, Cody Flatt, Casey Flatt, Allyson Patterson, Peyton Patterson, Kyler Patterson, Jessica Slagle (Scotty), Levi Davison (Jessica), Taylor Britt, Crystal Barche, Ronald Barche, Thomas Barche (Elissa), Scotty Boyer (Nancy), Perry Randolph, Robert Horton, Mandy Buford, and Samantha Horton, and a plethora of great grandchildren. His family carries forward his memory and the many ways he shaped their lives through his presence and example.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, September 14, at 11:00 a.m. at the Cookeville Chapel of Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home (59 N Jefferson Ave.) Mickey Leftwich and Maston Jackson will officiate. Interment with military honors will follow at Cookeville City Cemetery. Visitation for friends and family will be Sunday evening from 4 - 7 p.m. with a Masonic Service at 7 p.m.

Thomas Jackson Key will be remembered for his work, his service, and the enduring imprint he left on his family and community. His life was one of commitment and resolve, and those who loved him will hold close the memories of his strength and character.

Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111 Share condolences and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com.