Jonathan David Keyes Jonathan David Keyes, 13, of Fayetteville, Georgia died July 19, 2008. He was an upcoming 8th grade student with the Abeka Home School Academy. Jonathan was a member of the Atlanta City Church where he was involved in the children’s ministry, teen male discipleship group, and multimedia. He also was a member of the Fayette Blue Devils football team for two years. He is survived by his Father Rodney Keyes of Fayetteville, Georgia; Mother Vicki Denise Ricks Keyes of Fayetteville, Georgia; Sisters Nia and Ashley; Grandparents John and Delores Keyes of Richmond, VA; Aunt Doris Ricks of Hampton, VA; Uncle Kirk Keyes of Raleigh, NC; Great-grandmothers Eliza B. Williams of Fredericksburg, VA and Doris A. Anderson of Ahoskie, NC; and a host of family and friends. Funeral Services will be held Thursday, July 24, 2008 at 1:00 PM at the Atlanta City Church, North Campus with the Pastor Rick Snow officiating. Interment will follow at Westminster Memorial Gardens, Peachtree City, GA. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 5:30 to 8:00PM at C.J. Mowell & Son Funeral Home, Fayetteville, Georgia. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Atlanta City Church, “Keyes Family Fund”, 3355 Old Jonesboro Rd, Fairburn, Georgia 30213. 770-964-2138

Condolences

Our world has lost one GREAT CHILD, Jonathan David Keyes. Jonathan was a patient, kind, talented and caring child who was a role model to many of his peers. His kindness touched an insurmountable number of people in his short life. Although there are not enough words to express the great pain and sorrow in my heart now, there is comfort, peace and joy in knowing that God has his plan and Jonathan is with him now. May God bless the family and give them strength, understanding and knowledge that he has been called home to serve our Lord Jesus Christ in a higher capacity. May God grant peace upon the family and his friends. I pray this in your name Jesus Christ, Amen. I pray that you find this poem comforting. I’m Free Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free, I’m following the path God laid for me. I took his hand when I heard his call, I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day, To laugh, to love, to work or play; Tasks left undone must stay that way. If my parting has left a void, Then fill it with remembered joy; A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss, Oh yes, these things, I too will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow, I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life’s been full, I savored much; Good friends, good times, a loved one’s touch. Perhaps my time seemed all to brief, Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your heart and share with me, God wanted me now- He set me free. Author Unknown From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same the Lord’s name is to be praised. Psalms 113:3 Cousin Marcie (Waldorf, MD) Marcie Gray on 7/21/2008 at 8:15 PM

Jonathan D. Keyes, will forever be loved and remembered by all of his friends and family. Even though his stay here on earth was way to short, he left a lasting impression on us all. We watched him grow from a baby to an early teen. During that time he became a gentle giant who was well mannered, respectful, and God fearing. At an early age he accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior, and put him first in all things. We all thought that he would be with us for a long time to do Gods work here on earth, but God said his work here on earth was complete, and called him home. During this time of bereavement, we say to you Rodney, Vicki, Nia, and Ashley; “Hold your head high and know that God is your source.” The sting of death hurts us all but we know that Jonathan is home with the Father and Son Jesus Christ. Your Cousins, Todd, Delores, and T.J. Gray, (Baltimore, Md.) Todd, Delores, and T.J. on 7/21/2008 at 10:52 PM

Though there are not enough words to express how saddened and crushed we are at the passing of Jonathan David Keyes, there is comfort in knowing that our Lord Jesus has taken him by the hand and has escorted him to his Glory. I pray the Lord Jesus gives Rodney, Vicki, Nia, and Ashley strength, comfort, and peace in this time of loss. "I will love thee, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower." Psalms 18:1-2 Your friends, Doreen, Benito, Benito Jr., and Meagan Robles. Doreen Robles on 7/22/2008 at 8:23 AM

Keyes Family - Although we didn't break bread & sip coffee together over a table, we have broken bread and shared life in the spirit together. Rodney & I have prayed on occasions and dropped tears over life, my heart was broken with the loss of your wonderful, beautiful, God fearing son, just broken-- so I think I can imagine - only imagine the grief you must feel. Each of you have been in my prayers once the email came out and shall continue as long as needed... I love you with the love of our Lord and He will care for, carry and nourish you soul, spirit and your very bodies. Jesus be glorified! Karen Triplett Karen Triplett on 7/22/2008 at 11:46 AM

Pastor Rodney, Vicki, Nia ans Ashley, it is very difficult to find words to express my sincere, heartfelt condolences to you in such a time like this, but take comfort in knowing that the body of christ is also sharing in this time of grief and pain with you and I am praying for your strenth moment by moment as you go through this time of grief. We loved Jonathan and will certainly miss him. Enold Pemberton 7/22/08 Enold Pemberton on 7/22/2008 at 2:13 PM

My prayers are with you Rodney, Vicki, Nia and Ashley. Although I was not fortunate enough to meet Jonathan, I feel blessed to know that he touched many hearts during his short time. Cheryl McCoy Castellanos on 7/22/2008 at 3:22 PM

Keyes Family, I am terribly saddened by the loss of your son. Although we met only briefly during Jonathan's illness, I was touched by your family's grace, patience, kindness, and overwhelming love and concern for your son. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and may God grant you peace in this difficult time. Tracy Barr (CHOA) Tracy Barr on 7/22/2008 at 4:26 PM

Pastor Rodney & Vicki Keyes, my heart breaks for you. Never can a parent fathom their child leaving this world before them. Praise God, Jonanthan knew the Lord for himself and understood his purpose. Although he was taken suddenly I am sure he was ready. And being the loving and understanding parents you are, perhaps you were ready to let him go knowing he will be with Jesus and that everything is alright with his soul. What an awesome privilege to be CALLED home by your heavenly Father! You are Loved! Paula, Kingsley, Victoria & Kimberly Aiken on 7/22/2008 at 6:44 PM

Keyes Family, my heart is heavy with you during this time of your bereavment. I offer though as you journey through this valley, it too will become a pleasant place to rest because God alone will be carrying you. Kinow that the Lily of the Valley will give you Peace in the Valley, especially at a time when life is in a surreal state of mind. Inels T. Scotton on 7/22/2008 at 9:35 PM

Dear Cousin, God's gracious love and bountiful peace be with you and yours. He is merciful and kind this you know. Our family here in North Carolina will hold you in prayer as you continue through this moment of weeping, looking for the joy that comes in the morning. Love you Carnell Jones Barrow... Oriental, North Carolina Carnell J. Barrow on 7/22/2008 at 11:50 PM

When I saw that someone had described Jonathan as a gentle giant, that is how I will always remember him. He was older, bigger and more mature than Michael, yet he was always gentle and kind and made Michael feel that Jonathan was his "best bud". I know the Lord will comfort you in this time as only He can. You are in our thoughts and prayers. We will carry Jonathan in our hearts forever. Much Love! Derrick and Dannielle Maldonado on 7/23/2008 at 8:48 AM

My thoughts & prayers are with you, Keyes Family, that you would be comforted by friends, family and our Father God continually. May the Peace that passes all Understanding keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Love to you Rodney. Glenn Valentine on 7/23/2008 at 9:07 AM

Rodney, Vicki and Family - know that I lift your name to our Lord and Savior at this moment, for the peace and solace that only He can provide. Know that you are loved and being prayed for across the nation. We will lift your family's name at my church home here in Southern California. Your son was clearly a remarkable young man and his brief presence on this earth was a gift to us all. May the grace of God now rain down on you and your family, with ministering angels dispatched to tend to your sorrow. Jehova Ropheka (God who Heals) be with you and yours at this time, in Jesus' name. Agape Love James E. Blacken, Jr. on 7/23/2008 at 10:48 AM

What can one say? We know in part, He knows all. His truth brings forth peace even in a time like this. We serve a redemptive God who is able to work His redeptive works in every situation. Jonathan's life is filled with purpose and the end of that purpose is far from over. Pastor Rodney and Vicki: we love you and hold you close in our hearts. Richard, Quincy, Jessica and Kate Richard Forde on 7/23/2008 at 2:09 PM

My thoughts and prayers are with the keyes family, from a parent who has lost a son not as young as jonathan howerver, the pain is still fresh on hearing of jonathan it bring back all the pain,as devoted christians you know god will never fail, he will take you through, the lord will take you through..pastor rodney and vicki you will be in my prayers , lena thompson acc family lena thompson on 7/23/2008 at 2:47 PM

My thought and prayers with heartfelt condolences go out to your entire family during this difficult time. I will be praying for your family as Jonathan was a faithful child who touched others and lead by example. He will be missed until we see him again in glory. Pamela Noah on 7/23/2008 at 2:47 PM

It was with great sorrow to learn of Johnathan's passing. Unfortunately, it has been several years since we have seen this young man but all of my many memories are of a glorious child who always had a giant smile on his face. Our hearts are broken with yours but know that even though his life was short (in terms of years) the impact of knowing him will last for eternity. May God bless you, hold you, and comfort you. We Love you and will be praying for you. Tod and Lori Wells on 7/23/2008 at 3:18 PM

Rodney & Vicki and girls, We share in your sorrow in the loss of Jonathan. We lost a son years ago in difference circumstances. But I do know that we share the same Lord and pray He will comfort you in the same way we were comforted. Our love is with you. Pam and Jerry Pam & Jerry Tuggle on 7/23/2008 at 3:33 PM

Rodney, Vickie and family, as a parent, I have never gone throuh what you are going through now; I can only imagine that it is a hard plce to be and and something you will never understand but God know. I pray for peace and strength for you to carry on with a continued abiding faith in God. I didn't know Johnathan but get a picture of him from the many positive words I have heard about him. my prayers are with you, Love in Christ. Linda Dudley on 7/23/2008 at 3:46 PM

Rodney & Vickie and Family, our thoughts and prayers are w/ you and your family, our hearts are filled w/ sorrow, we pray that the Lord will provide strength, peace and comfort during this very difficult time for your family, Earth hath no sorrow that heaven can not heal. Juan & Lynn Carr on 7/23/2008 at 3:56 PM

Pastor Rodney and vickie, My prayers and thoughts are with you and the girls. Johnathan was an amazing young man who had a contagious love for the Lord, Which rubbed off onto everyone he came in contact with. i pray for such a comfort and peace to be with you and the girls in this time. But i know that his legacy will live on in many lives including my own.i love you very much and will continueto pray for you! Crystal Binkley on 7/23/2008 at 4:25 PM

Pastor Rodney, Vickie,Nia,Ashley and family,my prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. I pray that theLord bless you and keep you: the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you: the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace. May He hold you in His arm like a baby and comfort and strength you as only He can. I love you and will continue to pray for you. Alfreda Williams on 7/23/2008 at 5:02 PM

God knows that your hearts are full of pain, maybe some anger and a lot of confusion. There is more going on than we could imagine or understand, even if God told us. As much as you are able, rest in the trust you have in God. We can not grasp the wonder of God's nature and that's a good thing. Who wants to worship a God who can be fully comprehended? You are smack dab in the center of God's love. God is especially fond of Jonathan, and you too... from "The Shack" by William P. Young Bren adn Brelen WHite on 7/23/2008 at 5:35 PM

Pastor Rodney and Vickie, Nia, and Ashley...it sadens me to hear of Jonathan's passing, but I want you to know that he was a blessing to me and many others in the time that we had with him. I never remember a time that I saw him that he was not smiling. He always brought joy to my heart as I would watch him interact with the children at church. He will be truely missed, but I know that his legacy will live on forever in your lives and many others that he had touched. Thank you so much for raising an amazing man of God. All my love... Kayla Green on 7/23/2008 at 5:39 PM

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Keys family in this time of tragedy and grief. Know that the Bookers are here for you. We love you. And we will always remember and miss Jonathan and we know we will see him again in paradise with God. Rest assured that he is up there with Christ right now. Take comfort in that. Blessings to you and yours. Isis Booker on 7/23/2008 at 6:14 PM

Rodney,Vicki, Nia & Ashley it saden my heart to hear that Jonathan has passed. May God be with you in this time of sorrow. I Love you, your cousin Lois Suggs Gilliam, Clayton,NC Lois Suggs Gilliam on 7/23/2008 at 6:15 PM

Rodney, Vicki,Nia & Ashley...We are so sorry to hear of your loss. May God bless you and your family. We Love you. Aunt Agnes & cousin Oleta, Oriental,NC Agnes Suggs & Oleta Green on 7/23/2008 at 6:20 PM

Pastors Rodney and Vickie and Nia and Ashley, My prayers and thoughts are with you. Jonathan was family to us, whenever I saw him, it brought a smile to my face. I know that he touched so many lives just by his joyful presence. He was a remarkable young man and his legacy will live on with us forever Francesca Wilder on 7/23/2008 at 6:25 PM

There is nothing like looking into the sky and seeing the stars at night. A beautiful clear night makes them so bright and beautiful. Jonathan's light shined from you through Jesus and made an impact on many. I am grieved at his travel home so early but am blessed for the time he shined on the earth in the day or night like a star. You are blessed even in this time. I pray for you... Kemba Cofield on 7/23/2008 at 7:08 PM

I just read the paper today and saw the terrible news. I can't even imagine what you are going through. Even though it has been a couple of years since seeing you all, we remember what a wonderful and kind young man your son was. We only know that God must have a plan that we do not try to understand. May God give you and your family peace during this traumatic time in your life. We miss you guys. God Bless you! Drew does remember how fun he was also. Bill and Toni Dutton and family on 7/23/2008 at 9:54 PM

Pastor Rodney and family, I have spent many hours searching for the words to bring either comfort or encouragement. I regret to say I have yet to find them. What I have found is memories. Memories of how much you and your family meant to me and Kryztilla during our time in Atlanta. I sit here in tears remembering your amazing son. The joy an maturity he brought not only to Gen 2/20, but Cadre was not only felt by the kids. My relationship with him has forever changed my life. He was wise and committed to God far beyond his years. A spitting image of you filled with encouragement and joy. I never knew a bad moment in his presence. I am sorry if my message is a little long, but I wanted to give you a glimpse of how my relationship with Jonathan and your family will forever influence my life. We Love You Guys and our prayers are with you. Mark & Kryztilla Barfield on 7/23/2008 at 10:38 PM

Take one step at a time,a day at a time,and leave the rest to GOD.We love you and you are in our prayers. Judy,Lynn & Robbie Judy Suggs on 7/23/2008 at 10:40 PM

Pastor Rodney, Vickie, Nia, and Ashley, words are few but our hearts and prayers are with you as you walk through these difficult days and weeks. May His love and Spirit continue to hold you close. Bob and Carm Haasenritter on 7/23/2008 at 11:09 PM

To Pastors Rodney and Vicki, Nia and Ashley. We love you. In time, live by grace as you always have. steven and jacqueline wilder on 7/24/2008 at 1:29 AM

Pastor Rodney, Vickie and Family, My thoughts and prayers are with you. I know that my Father is giving you peace and comfort and will continue to do so. Please consider this a hug from China. I can't wait to give you a hug in person. Love ya. Deena Wallace on 7/24/2008 at 4:23 AM

Pastor Rodney, Vicki, Nia and Ashley, I hardly know what to say... My heart breaks for you all. My prayer is that The Comforter will confort you as only He can. May He wrap you in His arms of love, and as the lady sang in church on Sunday, give you a soft place to fall... Tricia Cunningham on 7/24/2008 at 7:34 AM

Pastor Rodney and Vicki, I can remember looking across the front of the audtorium on Sunday's and admire how Jonathan would be standing tall next to you and giving the Lord all the Praise that is due to him. Your family has been a beaken of light that has always drawn my eyes. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May the Lord continue to shine His grace, love and peace upon you as He carries and embraces you. Love ya Paulette and Clyde Triplett Paulette Triplett on 7/24/2008 at 9:12 AM

Pastor Rodney and Vicki, I can remember looking across the front of the audtorium on Sunday's and admire how Jonathan would be standing tall next to you and giving the Lord all the Praise that is due to him. Your family has been a beaken of light that has always drawn my eyes. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May the Lord continue to shine His grace, love and peace upon you as He carries and embraces you. Love ya Paulette and Clyde Triplett Paulette Triplett on 7/24/2008 at 9:12 AM

Pastor Rodney, Pastor Vicki, Nia and Ashley, When I spoke with you on Saturday, GOD showed me Jonathan standing by Jesus and that our earthly time of loss is certainly HEAVEN'S gain. Jonathan's life has and will continue to bring life to others. GOD's grace, peace and love will comfort you as you continue to walk by FAITH as you always do. I LOVE YOU! Angela Brown on 7/24/2008 at 9:32 AM

Pastor Rodney & Vickie Keyes,Ashley and Nia, We are so saddened by the loss of you beloved Jonathan. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.You all are such a wonderful family that I know God will continue hold your family up and continue to bring love and peace you way.May God bless you in your time of loss. Roy & Tracey Pauley and family on 7/24/2008 at 1:51 PM

Pastor Rodney and Vickie. There is nothing more to be said that has not been said already. We love you and hold your family close to our hearts. Jesus is your comfort, strength and peace in your loss. We love ya! Willie and Melissia Gray on 7/24/2008 at 4:33 PM

Our hearts and prayers go out to you and your family. We were so sorry to hear of Jonathan's passing. The sorrow that the loss of a child brings is unimaginable. Our earthly loss is God's heavenly gain. The Lord called upon him one more angel. We pray that God's comfort and strength be with you during this difficult time. Chanda & Kwamena Allen-Baffoe on 7/24/2008 at 7:57 PM

Rodney, Vicki, Nia and Ashley our thoughts and prays are with during this time of bereavement. May your memories of Johnathan bring you comfort. Look to God and each other for comfort during the difficult times. We love you and will continue to pray for you. Love Cousins Mae, Hubert, Pia, Anthony, Naja & Neil (Connecticut) Mae Hines-Warren & Pia Grasty on 7/24/2008 at 10:13 PM

Our hearts and prayer go out to you and your family. May God give you and family peace, known that Jonathan lived a life of joy, because of the Godly direction of his parents. Jonathan was not just an example to our young people, but also to the adults, of kindness, humbleness and love. We love you. Emely & Winston Perez on 7/24/2008 at 10:38 PM

hello and many condolances to the keyes family. I want you to know that you are blessed to have had such a wonderful son. To know that he was joyful, an encourager, and gentle must give you comfort and heartache at the same time. I haven't had the joy of having a son, but I pray that if I do he will follow the Lord with all his heart just as Jonathan did. may you feel the comfort of the Holy Spirit at this time and always...amanda Amanda Green on 7/28/2008 at 3:03 AM

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