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John Fay Obituary
Memories and Condolences
for John Fay
74 Entries
July 21, 2016
If you know John, you know his personality.
In recent years he kept taking more risks, but in intelligent ways. Or not, he showed me a photo of him surfing a 20 ft wave and he survived it but he wondered if that would kill him. It did not. I wish he sent me the photo instead of staring at his cell phone.
The list of countries he told me he visited last few years blew my mind. About three of them I guess he surfed, I'm not sure about the rest.
Again, I don't want John to soon be forgotten.
Jeff
Jeff Frohwein
May 3, 2016
Yesterday I sold the bike John sold me in 1996. Peace brother.
(John told me he was looking forward to relaxing. John is still highly intelligent and curious. Relax brother.)
February 22, 2016
I had known John since Blossomwood all the way to Montevallo. I read of his passing in Montevallo's Alumni magazine and was deeply shocked and saddened and had no idea. No idea.
Many memories of our school days.
No one is ever prepared for such a thing; time can only heal so much and memories will start to fade.
Godspeed John and I'll see you on that everlasting playground.
J.C.
Catherine Gonzalez Richardson
August 15, 2015
I went to school at Montevallo with John. He was so sweet. I remember once my freshman year, I was at a bonfire party, and I was alone John came over and talked to me for hours. He was a genuinely nice guy.
He was a good man. I was fond of him, and have good memories.
John and Eli
Robin Finkbeiner
August 8, 2015
Thoughts and prayers are with this family that he loved so much. John was such a wonderful and faithful friend to me. He was always there when I needed him. He was such a funny guy.. I will miss our long talks and cherish the memories. I wish more than anything we could have kept in better touch the last few years. I am heartbroken that you are no longer here... Till we meet again friend. Love you so much!
John training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, he loved to train
Suzanne Ramsden
August 4, 2015
Julia Frink
August 3, 2015
My thoughts are with his family. John got his start dog walking with my company in San Francisco and went on to be an accomplished and respected dog walker. I know he loved his pack and worked with them closely. The SF dog community will miss him.
Jeff Frohwein
July 21, 2015
I added to the photo section the rail buggy I
mentioned earlier. The third brake light, barely
visible on the red, rear cross beam, is slightly
cracked where John was climbing on top while I was
working in my drive way. (~ May 2015) His weekly
question was, "When are you going to get this thing
on the road?" My reply was always, "It's almost street
legal." It was almost like a magnet for him to climb
on the tires, or on top. I'm glad he never lost that
trait (or at least he regained it) from childhood.
It's almost expected that adults don't, or shouldn't,
act that way. It was refreshing to be around his sort
of spontaneous behavior, maybe for no other reason
than it's a sort of an unfiltered approach to enjoyment
of life. It made me feel young again, being around him.
He really had an arsenal of traditional gifts: High
intelligence, quick-wit, extremely fast learner,
agility, empathy, as a minimum. He had an arsenal of
untraditional gifts as well, levity among them.
He took bass lessons from Victor Wooten, who's now
regarded as one of the 20 or so best bass players ever,
worldwide. If John focused on that path, I'm sure he
would now be teaching Victor and others new techniques.
I do not want him to soon be forgotten, because he
embodies some of the best traits of some of the best
people that have ever lived.
Jeff Frohwein
July 21, 2015
Jen Moshier
July 17, 2015
John and I reacquainted from our high school years when he owned a dog-walking business in San Francisco. I had a Dalmatian dog, Mikey. John took the rejected dogs. My dog loved nothing more than to hear the word "John." John was a light in my life. He called my loud, sudden laughter "instant gratification." John had a way of making you feel good about yourself no matter who or what you were. I haven't been able to get this out of my mind. John was actually instant gratification. He showed up at your door and life got interesting and took on a levity that came with John. I'm so disheartened that levity won't be back at my door, as I'm sure your family mourns his loss as well. I'm both certain and grateful that John is with God.
Johns 86 Honda Rebel. I bought it ~96 and still own it.
Jeff Frohwein
July 15, 2015
July 15, 2015
Dwight and Gail:
So deeply sorry for your loss, and my deepest sympathy and highest regards.
Most sincerely,
Tom Bearden
Mary Jo Wicks
July 14, 2015
Gail, my heart aches for you and your family. So sorry for your loss. Wish I could be there for you.
Carolyn (Donoghue) Alkire
July 14, 2015
Just heard of John's passing. so sorry to hear the news. It has been years since I have seen John. He was always laid back and had no cares in the world. May you find peace and know I am praying for you and your family.
FUMC Five year olds, 1978
Ed Gatzke
July 14, 2015
I am very sorry for your loss. I have been thinking about John and your family a lot these past days.
suzanne ramsden
July 13, 2015
John was a warm, vibrant man and we all enjoyed him at the gym. We will miss him very much
Dinah Rhodes
July 13, 2015
I am so sorry for your loss. Dinah Rhodes
Lynda, Robert, Rob and Adrianne Rankin
July 13, 2015
We first met John about 40 years ago when as young families,the Fays and Rankins, shared vacations at Garden City,S.C. Through the years our families kept each other informed of our children's activities. Reports of John were always unconventional as he lived it "his way". By these photos we are assured he lived it with great joy, appreciation Life and with respect and love for his family. I think it could be said that in his all to brief life, he made the world a better place. Dwight and Gail, we share your deep loss and can only offer our prayer for the Peace of God that passes all understanding to be with you now and all your days that must follow without his presence.
Jennifer Carden Tidmore
July 13, 2015
My memory of John is that he was never anything but kind and creative. I pray God will keep you all close to Him and help you through each day. God speed, John.
Angelle Sieg Taylor
July 13, 2015
I am sorry to hear about John passing. I went to school with him at Montevallo and enjoyed his kind and laid back nature. He was always so pleasant and jovial. We went camping one weekend and rock climbing and he was so easy to be around! I am very sorry for your loss
Roger Rinn
July 13, 2015
With deepest sympathy.
Janelle Stewart Holmes
July 13, 2015
So sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that we, the class of 1955) are praying for GOD to heal your heart and comfort you at this time.
Christine Durrance
July 13, 2015
My words will never ever describe both my sorrow and care for John's family and friends right now. I had the privilege of working with John at Totally Infused this year and I am just so sad and so sorry that this has happened. Please know that I have been and will continue to pray for comfort and healing for you all....
Derek Smith
July 13, 2015
My sincerest condolences to the Fay family and to those that loved John. I haven't seen you in years, John, but every memory I have of you is a dear one. You were so bright, kind, talented and interesting and I feel very fortunate to have known you. Godspeed and may your loved ones find peace in the memories of better days.
Joyce Calvert
July 13, 2015
I am so sorry to hear this sad news. You and your family will be in my prayers.
Glynda Gwaltney
July 13, 2015
A Prayer for Difficult Days
Father, Hear my prayer. Grant me gospel hope in the midst of this dark,hard day.help me cling to your grace, your wisdom, and your
strength. Help me to see that you are in this and that you are with me. In Jesus' name. Amen. Dwight and Gail,, we send you our love and prayers. We are so sorry.
Katie Smith Jarres
July 13, 2015
I was so very sorry to hear the news of John's passing. I have such wonderful memories of our time together during beach trips growing up. He was always funny and interesting to be around. I know you will miss him so much - prayers and hugs to you all.
Jeff Frohwein
July 13, 2015
I'm at a loss for words... I'm glad I got to
spend time with him again upon his recent
return from San Francisco. A truly multi-talented
person. He had a natural talent for guitar
and bass guitar, and his fingers would fly
when playing. His ability to start programming
at about the age of 40, and master the Ruby
programming language speaks for itself. It
is arguably one of the hardest (steep learning
curve) programming languages to learn, let
alone starting with that first. I am a
programmer by trade, and I was truly impressed
when I reviewed his Ruby on rails code for his dog
walking application. His sense of adventure
always left me amazed. On recent ventures
with my rail buggy, I would let John drive
and just follow where ever his intuition
led him. On a recent trip, John stopped at
a 7-11 in a rural part of the county and
asked about local dirt trails, so that
was the next adventure for the day. The
first time we went out, and the rear wheel
came off, John was driving but we were able
to safely stop with little damage done.
We were able to put it back on and head
back home. For many that would be a terrifying
experience. After we came to a stop, I've
never seen John laugh so hard in my life.
I kept apologizing about that whole thing,
but he said he is the one that should be
thanking me for a good laugh. Worry was
a foreign word to John, which is obvious
seeing some of the massive waves that he
surfed. The earth would be a lot better
place with more folks like John around.
I have to believe that we will meet again
at some point. Peace brother.
Vicki VanValkenburgh
July 13, 2015
Thinking of the Fays and praying for you to find peace and comfort. I'm so sorry.
Caroline and Ryan Bailey-Irving
July 12, 2015
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. We had the privilege of knowing John through Ed. He was a friendly, funny, and likable person. We are here if you need anything.
July 12, 2015
Dwight and Gail -
We cannot imagine the sense of loss that you are feeling. Please know that you and in our thoughts and our prayers in these days of sorrow.
Bob and Karen Mitchell
July 12, 2015
You are so loved and blessed with friends who care deeply for you. Psalms 30:5 says "though weeping may endure for a night; but JOY cometh in the morning. John has been in our prayers and our faith tells us that he is okay. No more pain and suffering. To be with JESUS is the best day that each of us are waiting for. Sincere prayers and love to you and your family.
Patricia & Billy Stone
Lisa Cumbie
July 12, 2015
Judge Fay and Mrs. Fay, I am so sorry to hear about your son. You will be in my prayers. I have retired ND moved back to Greenville, so I will not be able attend funeral, but you will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Lisa Cumbie
Susan Brunsvold
July 12, 2015
My husband Ryan is on his way to Alabama, but I wanted to pay my respects as well. John was well loved by many. I am so very sorry for your loss.
Linda Durrett
July 12, 2015
Dwight and Gail, there is such sorrow in my heart for your loss! I can only imagine what you're experiencing right now. May our Heavenly Father comfort you in His everlasting arms and fill you with His peace during this time.
Pam and Bill DiMarino
July 12, 2015
We are deeply saddened to hear of John's passing. One of my favorite pictures, which is framed on a wall, is of John taking the kids for a boat ride behind "Jack's Shack" at sunset in S.C., so long ago. He'll remain in our hearts as forever young and handsome, with that infectious smile. Please accept our condolences, and be assured of our prayers. May you know the consolation of our Lord.
Love,
Pam & Bill
Lynn Whisenant
July 12, 2015
Judge, Mrs Fay and family. Each of you will be in my thoughts and prayers .
Glynda and Ken gwaltney
July 12, 2015
My Dear Dwight and Gail, our hearts are so heavy since hearing of your fine son's death. He is in the hands of Jesus now and we shall meet up with him some day. I will be holding your family in my prayers during these hard days. I love you both.
July 12, 2015
So shocked to hear about John's death at church this morning! Please know that our hearts and prayers are with you during such a sad sad time.
Daphne and Ronnie Reed
Michelle Landry
July 12, 2015
Michelle Landry
July 12, 2015
Michelle Landry
July 12, 2015
Jennifer Alsabrook-Turner
July 12, 2015
I am overwhelmed by the news of John's passing. We were very close during our time at Montevallo for several years. I love his wit, his sense of humor, his love of music and animals, and his gentle spirit. He had a positive affect on those around him, and I know he will be missed. My heart goes out to you, his family. I pray you find peace and comfort in knowing he has found his.
Michelle Landry
July 12, 2015
Michelle Landry
July 12, 2015
Michelle Landry
July 12, 2015
Michelle Landry
July 12, 2015
Michelle Landry
July 12, 2015
Michelle Landry
July 12, 2015
Michelle Landry
July 12, 2015
Michelle Landry
July 12, 2015
Michelle Landry
July 12, 2015
Michelle Landry
July 12, 2015
Danny Gamble
July 12, 2015
Surprised and saddened by the news of John's death. May we all find peace in our time of sorrow.
Michelle Landry
July 12, 2015
It is with gratitude that I thank God for bringing John into my life. When I thought I was too difficult to love, he loved me. It started with a long talk New Year's Eve. Everyone knows that with John long talks are easy. Somewhere in the late hours of that night, I discovered a true friend. Someone who was imperfect like me, but who reflected back the best parts of myself. With John, I found adventure- he was always climbing a tree, swimming a lake, riding a motorcycle. His fearlessness was contagious and I found myself braver and stronger. How much I laughed with him... that quick mind, teasing the humor out of the dark. There was no sport that John did not effortlessly master: I remember in Hawaii two locals pointing to the water in disbelief that 'that guy' had just started surfing a year ago. Snowboarding, yoga, martial arts: John was strong and powerful. But a gentler soul there never was. I'm so deeply saddened that we must part for a time, but I know we will meet again in this infinite universe which has no beginning and no end. For now, best buddy, I know you have found Albee and you are at peace.
July 12, 2015
We are so sorry for your loss. Praying for you....
Joy and Michael Moore
July 12, 2015
So sorry for your loss.
Judy Grumbles
David Parham
July 12, 2015
He was a very good and gentle man. Always a delight to have around.
Cleo Goddard
July 11, 2015
We are so saddened to hear of the death of your son, Dwight and Gale. Our love and prayers go out to you and your family.
Norven and Cleo Goddard
Costa rica
Michelle Landry
July 11, 2015
Montana
Michelle Landry
July 11, 2015
SF
Michelle Landry
July 11, 2015
Monkeying around
Michelle Landry
July 11, 2015
Happy to meet everyone
Michelle Landry
July 11, 2015
Laying with the sacred cows
Michelle Landry
July 11, 2015
Holly Hall
July 11, 2015
We are very saddened to hear the news of Johm's passing. We send our love and thoughts. Am so glad to have known him since preschool. He blessed us all with his kindness and creativity.
Thinking of you-
Holly Shaver Hall
Charles and Katie Shaver
Elizabeth Limbaugh
July 11, 2015
I spent a good deal of time with John in Montevallo and always enjoyed his company. I am so sad to find out that he passed-I am praying for his soul and his family.
July 11, 2015
So sorry to hear of John's passing. I pray the Lord be your crag and stronghold through this unspeakably difficult time.
Joyce Bagwell
July 11, 2015
My heart is breaking for you this evening. There are no words right now except that you are loved and in our prayers.
Johm Fisher
July 11, 2015
So sorry to hear about John. My thoughts are with the Fay family.
James manning
July 11, 2015
I remember when we were in middle school and you played "eruption" note for note for me. The coolest thing that age. RIP John.
July 11, 2015
We are so sorry to hear of John's passing. We have many fond memories of him as a young boy. Our hearts go out to you in the loss of your precious son. You are in our prayers.
Ray and Shirley Nix
John Sutton
July 11, 2015
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Andrea Nelson Jones
July 11, 2015
I'm so sorry to hear of John's death. He was always a kind and talented guy. I haven't seen him since Montevallo, but it saddens me we won't meet here on this earth. I know we will meet again in Heaven, and that he will make it a more beautiful and colorful place. My prayers are with all of his friends and family. ❤
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