A Post About Loss and One of Our Own, Abigail Key
by Anand Lal Shimpi on July 30, 2013 4:20 PM EST- Posted in
- Abigail Key
If you've read any of our motherboard reviews from around 2005 - 2009, chances are you're familiar with the name Gary Key. He was a member of the AT team, heading up motherboard reviews and helping me out with a lot of our CPU/chipset coverage on the site during that time. Gary now works at ASUS, but I still view him as part of the AnandTech family. Last month his 15 year old daughter, Abby, was involved in a fatal car crash in Oklahoma.
I originally wanted to do a post last month when it happened, but I shied away from doing so in order to give the Key family more privacy. I've been speaking with Gary regularly since it happened and believe that the time is now right.
I'd never met Abby. Gary was at my house a few weeks before all of this happened. Abby needed a Mac for some college classes she was taking, so I gave her one of my old MBPs. She loved that notebook. Gary told me that she'd send pictures of it to her friends, along with her latest pair of toe socks - her other recent obsession. She loved pink. That bright pink MeMO Pad HD7 sample? It was destined for Gary, and then Abby.
Gary was always a proud father. And understandably so. He'd always tell me about how well Abby was doing in school and about how they were in trouble since she expressed interest in eventually going to Duke. She was a straight A student, excited about becoming a Junior in high school next year.
He always told me about how kind hearted Abby was. I've learned more about her desire to help and support others more since her passing than I ever knew before. I'm saddened that the world has lost a wonderful person with such potential. I've been getting regular updates from Gary, photos of Abby, notes on things she used to love to do, and every single time the emails bring me to tears.
Gary has been doing incredibly well with all of this. I can't imagine anyone being stronger than he has been over these past few weeks.
Here's where you all come in. If you've ever read anything Gary wrote, if he ever helped you in any way, or if you just want to lend some words of support to an honestly wonderful person and his family - please feel free to do so in the comments below. Gary didn't ask for me to do a post here, but I'm sure he and his family would really appreciate any kind words from his virtual family at AnandTech.
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arealMESSiah - Wednesday, July 31, 2013 - link
May she rest in peace, and I wish many blessings for the Key family. My family and I know your struggle.grandma geny heywood - Wednesday, July 31, 2013 - link
What a wonderful thought Anand. Thank you so much for your Post about our Abigail Key. This picture was taken when she and her sister came to visit me 4 months ago in Niagara Falls where I live. Little did I know that I would never see her again...sweet dear little grand daughter.I always got good vibes about AnandTech, the Key family always spoke highly of you and of your company Anand. As you described, we are devastated, but for the rest of the world we must try to keep on going. grandma geny heywood
mmusto - Wednesday, July 31, 2013 - link
Gary,I want to express my deepest sympathy. I lost my 5 year old daughter last February to a very brief battle with cancer. I can promise you it does get easier and cherishing and honoring Abby is by far the best way you can take care of her now. If you ever want to chat, please just message me.
-Matt
colinw - Wednesday, July 31, 2013 - link
My sincere condolences to the Key family. I am so very sorry.I have read AT since the old days, so of course I am familiar with Gary's contributions.
chrone - Wednesday, July 31, 2013 - link
RIP Abby. My condolences for you and family, Garry. Always love to read your articles. :-)yoyoma245 - Wednesday, July 31, 2013 - link
Gary,I'm sorry for your loss. From the photo Anand posted and the information he shared, it is obvious Abigail was a bright young light. Although she is no longer with you, the joy and energy she brought to the communities she touched endures. I hope you and your family take some pride and some small comfort in reflecting on that.
With strongest support and deepest sympathy,
Alex
DocSparky - Wednesday, July 31, 2013 - link
Gary, It just breaks my heart to hear about your family devastating loss. No words are adequate. Thoughts are prayers for your family. We can celebrate Abby's time and never forget the kindness she showed the world.WeaselITB - Wednesday, July 31, 2013 - link
If I knew of something to say that would make this tragedy less painful, I would gladly say it. I've been a follower of AT right from the beginning, during the overclocking heydays of the celery, and Anand, you're right - it does feel like an extended virtual family. My condolences on your loss, Gary.SpaceRanger - Wednesday, July 31, 2013 - link
Condolences to the Key family. No parent should out-live their children.. :(PreacherEddie - Wednesday, July 31, 2013 - link
Gary and the Key family, I am truly sorry for your loss. I pray that you find peace in this difficult time.