In Loving Memory of Jay Copenhaver1955 – 2025
We are deeply saddened to share that our dear friend and loved one, Jay Copenhaver, passed away on June 16, 2025, following complications from a cardiac arrest. He was 69 years old, born August 30, 1955 in Mount Pleasant, a son of the late Robert C. and Lucretia A. (Ingram) Copenhaver and was a resident of New Stanton, Pennsylvania.
Jay worked for over 30 years in the technology sector, most recently serving as Director of Information Technology at Rizzo International. He previously held the role of Chief Technology Officer, where his leadership and innovation left a lasting impact.
Jay is survived by his devoted wife, Clare Tajc Copenhaver, his children Jay(Elizabeth) Copenhaver, Jr. and Jamie Copenhaver-Barber, and his stepchildren Nicole (Donald) Holmes, Daniel (Ashley) Huygens, and Michael Huygens. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Ryan, Alexander, Nolan, Mila, Gavin, Emilia, and Kayden.
He is also survived by his sister Brenda (Dave) Worst, nephew Rob (Lauren) Titterington, and many extended family members. Through a remarkable turn of events later in life, Jay discovered a larger family tree, including half-siblings John (Angie) Barnes, Beverly (Robert) Marsh, Bonnie (John) Lynch, Lynn (Mike) Miller, and Amy (Richard) Malone, along with many nieces and nephews.
Jay’s love of music began at age 10 when he picked up the trumpet. His junior high band director, Fred “Plute” Eberharter, recognized his talent early on, often calling on Jay to play Taps for military funerals. In 2008, Jay honored his former teacher by playing Taps at his funeral.
Jay graduated from Southmoreland High School, Class of 1973 and received an Associates Degree in Technology from WCCC, In his senior year of high school, Jay auditioned and was accepted into the U.S. Army Materiel Command Band at Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD. He attended the U.S. Navy School of Music in Norfolk, VA, and went on to perform in numerous Army bands, including the 18th Army Band of New England. Jay served as an Army bugler during the Vietnam era and was honored to perform Taps for fallen heroes, often traveling by helicopter to do so. One of the highlights of his military service was playing herald trumpet for Queen Elizabeth II during the U.S. Bicentennial parade in Boston.
After his military service, Jay continued to share his love of music by teaching trumpet privately and mentoring young musicians. He served as Assistant Band Director and Brass Instructor for the Southmoreland Marching Band for nearly 15 years. He performed with the Scottdale Concert Band for over 20 years, Scottdale Jazz Band for 3 years, and the Jazz Warriors for 5 years. He was also a member of the WCCC Symphonic and Stage Bandsuntil the program was disbanded in 2018.
Jay’s musical legacy was deeply tied to his wife Clare’s big band, The Wally Gingers Orchestra, where he served as trumpeter, vocalist, and band manager. The band was founded by Clare’s father in 1939 and carried on the authentic big band tradition throughout the region. Jay’s leadership and musicianship were central to its continued success.
Most recently, Jay was honored to travel with a community concert band from Westmoreland County to Washington, D.C., where they became the first civilian band to perform at the newly dedicated World War I Monument. The group also played for veterans at the Veterans Home for Distinguished Veterans.
Jay’s reverence for military service was deeply personal. His great-great-grandfather, Josiah Inghram, fought at Antietam and Fredericksburg during the Civil War. Earlier this year, Jay played Taps at his ancestor’s grave as part of Taps Across America. He was a regular participant in 100 Nights of Taps – Gettysburg, proudly sounding Taps each year at the Gettysburg National Cemetery.
Jay was a faithful member of St. Bruno Catholic Church in South Greensburg, where he also sang with the St. Bruno Choir. He was active in the Knights of Columbus Council 1480 and served as the official bugler for VFW Post 211.
He was also a proud member of:
• Taps for Veterans• Taps Across America• 100 Nights of Taps – Gettysburg• Vice President at Tri-County Federation of Musicians Local 592Jay lived a life of service, music, and deep love for his family, his faith, and hiscountry. He leaves behind a powerful legacy that will live on through the countless people he inspired with his music, mentorship, and unwavering spirit.
The best way for any of us to honor Jay is to live a humble life of purpose and service with love and compassion. Let the life you lead speak for you. Let the songs you sing (or play) speak for you. Let the love you share speak for you. Let the friends you keep speak for you.
“Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.”
A Special Thank You
Our deepest gratitude to the exceptional medical team at the Thoracic & Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit at Allegheny General Hospital for their constant, compassionate care of Jay following his cardiac arrest. Your skill, kindness, and tender presence were a source of comfort and strength during an incredibly difficult and uncertain time. Your efforts will never be forgotten. Thank you for being a blessing when we needed it most.
Personalized arrangements are under the professional supervision of the ROBERT B. FERGUSON FUNERAL HOME, 105 SPRING STREET, SCOTTDALE (http://www.fergusonfunerals.com). Family and friends will be received from 5-8 PM Tuesday, 2-8 PM Wednesday, and 9-10:15 AM Thursday in the funeral home chapel followed by Parting Prayers at 10:15 AM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 AM Thursday in Saint Bruno Roman Catholic Church, South Greensburg with Rev. Father Lawrence Manchas as celebrant. Graveside committal service and interment will be in Green Ridge Memorial Park, Bullskin Township with Full Military Honors bestowed jointly by the Youngwood VFW Post #211 and Scottdale-Everson Honor Guard.
Love Lasts Forever!
Read More
