Malcolm Brooks Key, 79, of Live Oak, CA, passed away on September 23, 2026 in Stanford, CA on the early morning of his 79th birthday surrounded by his family. He was born on September 23, 1947 in San Jose, CA to John Walter Key III and Carolyn Claire Kennedy. 

Malcolm was best known for his kind and friendly personality, enjoying his conversations with customers at the bank where he worked for nearly thirty years. Malcolm found the greatest joy in his family, spending time together at countless gatherings, grandchildren’s sporting events, and time out in nature where he loved gardening, hiking, hunting, and fishing.

He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Kathleen Key; son Nathan Key (Carie); daughters Sarah Bissell (Drew) and Mary Barker (Ron); and eight grandchildren: Tyler, Avery, Claire, Jack, Brooks, Nico, Ames, and Margot; brother John Key IV (Lori); sisters-in-law Mary and Margaret Hughes; as well as multiple nieces, nephews and grand-nieces and grand-nephews. He was preceded in death by his son Brooks Key; sister-in-law Martha Hughes; brother-in-law Joseph Hughes; his parents and in-laws.

Services will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on October 8th at 11am followed by burial at Gridley-Biggs Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please plant something in your garden or enjoy the sounds of nature on his behalf.

Arrangements Entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel 530-846-2138