Mrs. Evelyn Griggs Key

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. From now on there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” - 2 Timothy 4: 7-8 Evelyn Griggs Key, affectionately known as El, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2025. If you ask anyone here what El meant to them, I guarantee the answers would be filled with warmth. She carried herself with a holiness that touched everyone. She was a woman of many talents and even more passions—a true Renaissance woman with a personality as vibrant and magnetic as the sun. She attended North Pitt High School, class of ‘77 and received her bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from NC State in 1982. Shortly after completing her degree, she began her 36 years of service with the Federal Government Department of Navy. During her time with the government, she received numerous awards for her contributions to designing aircraft carriers, including the third-highest award for civilians, the Navy Meritorious Civilian Service Award. After retiring, she worked as a government contractor for Barry Engineering for five more years before transitioning into full retirement in 2024. Evelyn was truly a "hidden figure," playing a pivotal role in creating the first women's living quarters at sea and designing numerous aircraft carriers, including one that her nephew served on during his military deployment. She not only became a pioneer for Black women in the civil engineering world, but she also inspired some of her nieces and nephews to follow her footsteps and get into similar career fields. Over the years, she wore many hats: writer, fashion designer, club owner, real estate agent, traveler—the list goes on. Her interests were as diverse as her music playlists. From Yolanda Adams to Tupac, Al Green to Tom Jones, Prince to Kenny Rogers, her love for music filled every corner of the house. Of course, musicals held a special place in her heart—she would blast songs from The Greatest Showman at full volume, and though she preferred The Wizard of Oz to The Wiz (a questionable choice, we agree), her all-time favorite was The Sound of Music. El also had a deep passion for travel. Over the years, she had the opportunity to visit numerous exotic destinations, both for work and leisure. Whether she was rearranging furniture for the fifth time that month or eyeing her next HomeGoods treasure, her love for interior design was beyond compare. She could hold her own with any sports fan passionately explaining why the Ravens and Lakers outshined their competition. And let us just say her favorite weekend pastime was all about taking risks and chasing thrills- if you know, you know. But what stood out most was her unwavering love for family and friends. She was always ready to step up and go to bat for anyone she cared about. Her strength was unmatched. When doctors told her, "You have four months left," she turned those words into five more years filled with love, laughter, and relentless spirit—a true testament to her fighting nature. She was Selfless. Her humor lit up the room, her courage inspired us all, and she had a magical way of turning ordinary moments into something extraordinary. She was the backbone of our family, the glue that held us together, and the reason so many of us felt loved beyond measure. She did not just speak about family values—she embodied them. To her, love was not just a feeling; it was an action. It meant being there for both the big and small moments, making time to call and check-in, or staying up late to help solve a problem—whether it was navigating your career, facing a tough life decision, or even bailing you out of trouble. Whatever you needed, even if all you required was just someone to listen, she was always there. She looked forward to her daily 630pm, 830pm and an occasional 1030pm call from Kamala “Pop” just to talk and laugh about their days. Her bond was so strong with her family that she was even able to convince her sister, Jackie, to move from just five minutes down the road to right next door. They were two peas in a pod. Jackie was her best friend, her confidante, her partner in crime. On August 20, 1959, an angel graced the world. She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Sammy and Ida Mae Griggs of Bethel, North Carolina; her brothers, Alton and James Griggs; her sister, Shirley Griggs; her brother-in-law, Michael Key; and her sister-in-law, Belinda Blackshear. She leaves behind the love of her life, Anthony Key, and their three cherished children: Kristin, Sydney, and Jordan Key. She is also survived by her beloved siblings: Louise Butler (the late George), Marjorie Powell (William), Barbara Griggs (Tony), Joyce Griggs, Jackie Brigman, Samuel Griggs (Pat), and Larry Griggs (Gail). Additionally, she will be deeply missed by her in-laws: Beverly Gibbons (Peter), Sammy Key Jr., Timothy Key (Martha), LeeAnne Taylor, and Carlos Key. Her legacy lives on through a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends whose lives she touched. Her presence will continue to watch over and protect us, reminding us of her boundless love. To Evelyn, El, Aunt El, Mom - You will be deeply missed. Your love, your laughter, and your spirit will always be a part of us. You will forever be our guiding light. Rest peacefully.

Tributes

Mrs. Evelyn Griggs Key

August 20, 1959 - January 17, 2025