Shannon Key

Shannon T. Key, age 40, a lifelong resident of Albuquerque, NM, took his first steps in Heaven early Wednesday morning, August 20, 2014. Shannon is survived by his wife of 19 years, Sorcha L. Key; his children, Cassia S. Key age 17, Kaylynn M. Key age 16, Garrett T. Key age 14; and his parents, Ernest T. Key and Ethel L. Key. Shannon battled brain cancer for 7 years and during this time never complained and always said he felt “GREAT” even when he didn’t. He was known to many as a family man, police officer, fighter, warrior, friend and most importantly a servant of God. Shannon was a member of Mesa Baptist Church where he faithfully served as a Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, and Choir Member. After graduating high school Shannon served in the U.S. Navy onboard the USS George Washington as an aviation ordinance man. After getting out of the Navy Shannon dedicated his life to serving the community as a Bernalillo County Sheriff’s deputy. During his 17 years as a deputy Shannon served on the Honor Guard, worked as a homicide and violent crimes detective and was a SWAT and K-9 Team Member. Shannon loved his job and considered all those he worked with, his brothers and sisters on the force. Often people would tell Shannon that it was good to see him and he would respond by saying, “It is good to be seen.” I like to think that when he entered Heaven God looked at Shannon and said, “It’s good to see you” and Shannon replied, “It’s good to be seen”. I will forever love you my partner, my lover, my stronghold, my best friend for now it is my job to carry on your legacy of, Keeping the Faith. Can’t wait to spend eternity with you… A viewing will be held for Shannon on Saturday, August 23, 2014 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at FRENCH - Westside. Shannon’s life Celebration service will be held on Monday, August 25, 2014, 10:00 a.m., at Mesa Baptist Church, 1411 Golf Course Rd. in Rio Rancho followed by a procession to Shannon’s final resting place at Sunset Memorial Park, 924 Menaul Blvd. NE. Following the graveside service everyone is welcomed to attend a reception located at the Albuquerque Moose Lodge at 2121 Edith Blvd. Pallbearers will be: Sgt. John Allen, Sgt. Van Eldredge, Sgt. Larry Harlan, Deputy Tim Hix, Deputy Micah Barker, Deputy Chris Starr, Sgt. Pat Burk, Sgt. Mark Kmatz, Deputy Nathan Kmatz, Capt. Justin Dunlap, Officer Rob Swessel and Officer Dennis Tafoya. Flowers can be delivered to FRENCH – Westside starting at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 23, 2014. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Shannon’s children’s college fund. Contact Mesa Baptist church for information on making donations. FRENCH - Westside 9300 Golf Course Rd NW 505-897-0300