George  Keys,  Sr. was born on April 9, 1934 to the late Aaron Smith and Henrietta Grant in Forkland, AL. At the tender age of 4, George moved to Canton, Ohio. George was raised by his mother and step- father, Reverend Daniel C. Keys Sr. He attended McKinley Senior High School.  At 22 years of age, George was Honorably Discharged from the United States Army, serving his country as a Private First Class (AUS).  George worked 34 years as a Grinder at Republic Steel, where he retired on Disability at the age of 50. Before retiring, George pursued classes in Electrical Engineering.

George enjoyed fishing at Fremont, Atwood Lake, and Mogadore.  He played cards, loved   collecting cans, chewing bubble gum and enjoyed a good Dutch Master President cigar.  George was a member of the Canton Negro Old Timers. He was a member of Peoples Baptist Church until he became ill.  George alongside his wife enjoyed being a host in his home to many friends and family.

George is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Charles (Mary) Keys; sisters, Frances Carr, Arthia Garden, Geraldine Taylor, Mary Watson and Ola Mae Smith; grandson,Tarrell Lamar Skinner.

George leaves to cherish his memory a loving and devoted wife of 63 years, Rose Helen Keys; son, George Keys, Jr.; daughters, Cassandra Keys-Morrow, Rochell (Tom) Mosley, Theresa (Roberto) Myrie, Yvonne (Willie Sherman) Johnson, Regina Wright, and Shonna Keys; grandchildren, Ivy Wilburn, Monica Winn, Lloyd Myrie, Jasmine Jamerson, Asia Jamerson, Arianna Myrie, Tatyanna Myrie; great- grandchildren, Madden Skinner, JeCori Skinner,   Josiah Jamerson; special great- grandchild, JeCoa Catterino; sister, Ada Smith; brother,  Daniel (Jamie) Keys Jr.; brother – in- law, Thomas Carr; and a host of  special grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.