Raymond Bernard Keys, "Self", passed away unexpectedly on August 24, 2025, at home in Winston Salem, North Carolina.  He was only 54 years old, and his family is deeply saddened by his sudden passing.  Raymond was born on January 19, 1971.

Raymond is survived by his mother, Mable Zamora; his brother, Calvin Keys (Amber Fair); his two sons, Amir Roach, Jayden Carter Graves who he loved dearly; one nephew, Gregory Boswell; one niece,  K'Essence R Keys; four aunts, Ann, Mattie ,Rosie, and Dorothy; two uncles, Brown and Jonathen; and a host of cousins and friends.

Raymond was preceded in death by his father, Raymond White; his grandmother, Magelene Keys known by all as GRANDMA"; and his oldest brother, Gregory Keys (Natural Born).

Raymond was born in Brunswick, New Jersey and attended Franklin Township Public Schools in Somerset, New Jersey.  He later lived in Michigan briefly before moving to North Carolina.

Raymond was quiet by nature but had a warm and kind spirit for all that knew him.  He had an incredible athletic ability for the sport of baseball.  He played when he was young, and his talent won him many trophies and awards for his amazing ability and love for the sport.  He was natural at the game.

As a parent of two sons, he proved to be a very loving, caring, and concerned father for his sons.  He demonstrated his love and concern in every way possible.

Raymond was a well-received person.  His smile will always be remembered.  His quiet demeanor will be missed but never forgotten and his consistent uphill struggles gave him strength to endure and persevere in his life.

He will forever be missed and remembered.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Friday, September 26, 2025 at Russell Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 12:30pm Saturday, September 27, 2025 at New Hope Baptist Church.  Interment will follow in Oaklawn Memorial Gardens. The family visitation will be held from 12noon until 12:30pm on Saturday at the Church.