Aileen W. Key

 Aileen Wartes Key, 102, passed peacefully on January 31, 2025. Born in Crosby County Texas on November 20, 1922 to Charles and Della Wartes, Aileen was one of nine children. She grew up on the family farm and learned early the value and necessity of hard work.
 In the mid-1930s, her family moved to Lipan, TX where she attended and graduated from Lipan High School. It was there that she met the love of her life, Kenneth “Dale” Key. They were married August 30, 1941. Less than four months later, America entered into WWII. While Dale was in the Army, Aileen moved to Fort Worth and worked for both a cleaner and a bakery. She became quite the accomplished cake decorator.  After the war, Aileen settled into the role of homemaker. After many disappointments she finally had her only child, Kenneth David Key in 1955. 
 In 1962, the family moved into a new home in a new neighborhood on the far south side of Fort Worth. Many of the friendships formed there lasted over 50 years. Aileen loved the mountains of Colorado and in 1967, the family accepted an invitation from some friends to join them on vacation in Creede, CO. That trip was the first of 23 trips to Creede, and ultimately the family was joined on these trips by most of their neighbors. Who goes on vacation to see their neighbors? Aileen cared deeply about family and friends. She was always ready to help wherever it was needed. She was very active in her church and was a lifelong Baptist. She was preceded in death by her husband Dale, her parents, all of her brothers and sisters, and by most of her friends. She is survived by her son Ken, daughter in law Lesa, and numerous nieces and nephews.
 Graveside services will be held on Friday, February 7, at Evergreen Cemetery, Lipan, TX at 11:00 am. Funeral arrangements by Lucas Funeral Home, Hurst, TX. 817-284-7271. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Samaritan’s Purse or a charity of your choice.