John Arthur Ward

I knew and worked with Jay when we both served on the Board of Cathedral Shelter - now Revive. At the time, Cathedral Shelter was constructing Cressey House and there were lots of problems with the construction. Jay, as Chairman, with his calm and insightful demeanor, lead us through these difficult challenges, all of which were eventually resolved. Honestly, I don´t believe Cressey House would have been completed without Jay´s dedication and leadership. Quite an inspiring and dedicated man.

I started working for Jay in May of 1979 and worked with him for approximately 25 years. I could not have asked for a better mentor. He pushed me to be the best lawyer I could be, and I owe any success that I have achieved in the legal profession to him. I have worked with many lawyers from around the country and I have tried many cases before many different judges, and I can say without hesitation that Jay was the smartest and best lawyer that I have ever met. With all that hard work and...

Jay was a loving, caring husband to Betsy, and father to their children. I am proud to have gotten to know him long ago, and benefited from his friendship and wisdom over many years whenever our lives intersected. He and Betsy introduce my family to Washington Island 56 years ago. I will miss his welcoming smile and compassion.