Journey of Life

Lawrence Ronald "Ronnie" Keys Jr., son of the late Lawrence and Diane Keys, was born on August 8, 1970, in Washington, DC. He departed this life on January 27, 2022, after a long illness battle.

Lawrence Ronald Keys Jr., affectionately known to many as Ronnie, attended Prince Georges County Public Schools and trade schools throughout his younger years and worked several jobs throughout his life. He was most excited about working as a Pipe Fitter for different companies working on sprinkler systems.

He had a passion for producing entertainment content, from music to film. He created the unstoppable entertainment label called "Mass Unit Productions." Ronnie produced music for Raven-Symoné and a host of other talented artists. One of the music groups he managed almost signed a deal with Def Jam Recordings. Ronnie never stopped tirelessly working towards being famous and bringing his family along with him. Ronnie always said if he made it big, we all made it big. He wrote plays and movie screenplays every chance he got and was always in the music studio working on hits.

Ronnie was a loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. He enjoyed eating out, writing, listening to music, and spending time with his loved ones. Ronnie was very supportive of his sons with their athletic abilities. Ronnie would make it to every game to cheer on his sons when he was able. He was the sideline cheerleader, coach, and manager. He would do anything for his family and friends. If you were fortunate to have been in his life, he made it a habit to keep you laughing. Ronnie was a comedian at heart. He was a great storyteller and had everyone hanging on every word as he spoke about things that happened in his past. Good or bad, he made it funny. He was always a true friend and devoted family man. He will be sincerely missed by all who know him.

Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Diane Keys, his grandparents Samuel Keys, Lavenia Keys, Jesse Brown, Jimmie McDuffie, Erler Mae McDuffie, and Aunt Diane Keys Lee.

He leaves to cherish his memory five children, Tiffanie Barksdale, Karlisa Williams, Lawrence Keys III, Lavar Keys, and Isiah Keys, Granddaughter Riley Watts, Wife Larita Keys-Barksdale. Three Siblings, Rhonda Jones (Charles), Lakeshia Harley (Quillo), and Jerrell "Andre" Keys (Nakia), and a host of cousins, aunts, and uncles.

Scriptures to get us through these challenging times:

John 11:25-26: "Jesus said to her, I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he dies, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die."

Revelation 21:4: "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away."

Letter from Lavar and Isaiah Keys

Dad, you were an inspiration in our lives. You were always there for us, always made sure we were good, made sure our hair was cut, and always wanted to go out to eat. You always sat us down and told us right from wrong. You told us to never be scared of anything, never be scared of our accomplishments, and be the best we can be. We appreciate every football and basketball game that you attended, hollering at us on the sidelines. You never stopped drilling us to keep moving forward. So, I will honor your wishes Dad. We will miss you calling our names Lavar and Isaiah until we meet again. We will miss you dad.

Lavar and Isaiah

Letter from Larita Barksdale

I never thought this day would come when our journey ended. I want you to always remember you were my long-time friend, spouse, and mate. Out of our 21 years together, we created two handsome sons and a lifetime of memories. You often told me that I was a great mom to your sons, and I take comfort knowing that you felt that way. You always told Lavar and Isiah to be #1. I feel numb right now because you are gone away, but I have to continue being strong and raising our boys. Now it's time to rest, my love. You are now with your father (God) up above. I would have never thought we would ever be a part, but remember, you will always have the key to my heart.

R- For the REAL in you

O- Outstanding person you were

N- Never said no

N- Never once turned away

I- Invincible you

E- Extraordinary you

Love Larita

Acknowledgments

We, the family of Lawrence Ronald Keys, Jr., gratefully acknowledge the many kind and beautiful expressions of sympathy and love shown during our time of bereavement. Please take a look at the video the family made in remembrance of Ronnie.

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