Lela B. Keys

Lela B. Keys, a devoted servant, leader, faithful woman of God, and pillar of the Clarksdale community, transitioned peacefully on February 22, 2026, at the age of 84.

Born on August 26, 1941, in Calhoun City, Mississippi, Lela was the fourth of twelve children born to the late Oris and Georgia Denton Bays. She accepted Christ at an early age in Drew, Mississippi, under the leadership of Rev. A.D. Banks, beginning a lifelong journey of faith and devoted service. After her family relocated to Lyon, Mississippi, she united with St. Claire Missionary Baptist Church, where she continued to grow spiritually and serve faithfully.

Upon moving to Clarksdale, Mississippi, she became a dedicated member of New Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church. There, she served in numerous capacities, demonstrating unwavering commitment and love for her church family. She was especially known for her leadership as Choir Director, a ministry she carried with grace, passion, and excellence until her health declined. Through her gift of music, she uplifted countless hearts, strengthened the faith of many, and nurtured generations in worship, leaving a legacy of praise and devotion.

Lela was united in holy matrimony to the late Meddie Rayford Keys, and to this union four children were born. She was a devoted wife and mother whose strength, wisdom, and steady guidance shaped the foundation of her family.

Committed to education and excellence, Lela earned her Associate of Arts degree from Coahoma Community College in 1963. From 1965 to 1982, she worked at Coahoma Opportunity and Head Start, serving as Secretary to the Director before advancing to Center Director in Jonestown, MS and later Special Area Coordinator overseeing 23 counties. Her leadership and administrative expertise left a lasting impact on early childhood development services throughout the region.

In 1983, Lela joined Northwest Mississippi Regional Medical Center as a Licensed Social Worker. Through diligence and distinguished service, she rose to become Director of Social Services, making history as the first African American to head a department at the medical center. In 1997, she was honored by the Mississippi Social Work Directors as Social Work Director of the Year, recognizing her dedication to advocacy and patient-centered care.

In 1996, Lela became Project Director of Delta Community Partners in Care, funded by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. Through this initiative, she led the development of a collaborative provider network aimed at improving care for patients with hypertension and diabetes across the Mississippi Delta. Her work advanced health equity and strengthened community-based partnerships.

Beyond her professional achievements, Lela was deeply invested in civic leadership. She served as a Member of the Board of Trustees of Northwest Mississippi Regional Medical Center, President of the Community Engagement Council, a member of the Clarksdale Revitalization Board, and a member of the Southern Rural Black Women’s Initiative, among many other boards and initiatives. She was more than a leader—she was a true citizen of Clarksdale who loved her community and dedicated her life to its progress.

Visitation will be Friday, March 6, 2026, from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Royal Funeral Home.  The Celebration of Life will be Saturday March 7, 2026, 2:00 PM, at Union Grove MB Church, 2237 North State Street, Clarksdale, MS 38614.  Burial will follow at Oakridge Cemetery.  Rev. Keith Powell, officiating, and Rev. L.C. Tyler, II, pastor. 

Lela was preceded in death by her loving husband, the late Meddie R. Keys; her parents, the late Oris and Georgia Denton Bays; six brothers, Billy Oris Bays, Prince Gene Bays, Willie George Bays, Jesse Lesley Bays, Nathaniel Bays, and Jonathan Bays; and one sister, Essie Lee Noah.

Her memory and legacy will forever be cherished by her four children: Yoland Keys of Clarksdale, MS; Dr. Mario R. Keys, Sr. (Jennifer) of Pittsburgh, PA; Kenneth Keys (Xandra) of Panama City, FL; and Dr. Selena Keys Jones (Joseph) of Tupelo, MS. She is also survived by one brother, Robert Dennis Bays (Edna) of Markham, IL; three sisters, Georgia Mae Ivy (Albert) of Hinesville, GA; Catherine Bays of Chattanooga, TN; and Vivian Harden of Evans, GA; sisters-in-law Juanita Bays and Joyce Bays, both of Clarksdale, MS, and Pamela Bays of Harvey, IL.

Lela’s joy multiplied in her eight grandchildren: Richard R. Jones, Regilyn T. Keys, Mario R. Keys, Jr., Khalib Keys, Khobhe Keys, Khial Keys, Alixzandria G. Young, and Laila A. Jones. Three great-grandchildren: Anyah Bills, Kaiden C. Jones, and Amyah J. Jones. She also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends whose lives were enriched by her grace, strength, and unwavering love.

Lela B. Keys lived a life marked by faith, service, leadership, and community impact. Her voice may be quiet now, but her legacy will continue to sing through the generations she inspired.

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