Jason “Jake" Carless Sturtz

Jason “Jake" Carless Sturtz

Jason Sturtz Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Mar. 11, 2024.
Jason "Jake" Carless Sturtz, 53, of Fayetteville, North Carolina, unexpectedly passed away at sunset on March 3, 2024 in Newport News, Virginia. Jake was born on July 20, 1970 at Fort Sill in Oklahoma.

Jake is survived by his wife Nina Taylor Sturtz; parents Don and Kathy Sturtz; children Noah Sturtz and Halle Walls (Logan); grandchildren Stella and Lincoln Walls, and Madison King Sturtz; brother Jeremy Sturtz (Amy); sister-in-law Candy Sturtz and Claire Potter (Mike); nieces Carlie, Camryn, Cassie Sturtz, Addison Potter: nephews Tucker Sturtz, Colby Sturtz, Slayton Walker and Weston Potter; father-in-law Jim Redding.

Jake was preceded in death by his son Cameron Sturtz, brother Josh Sturtz, and sister-in-law Callie Taylor.

After Jake graduated from high school, he joined the United States Army and served for 12 years specializing in Explosive Ordinance Disposal. Jake served three tours in Iraq and was awarded a Bronze Star. While in the Army, Jake earned a Master's degree in Electrical Engineering. For most of his career he was a telecommunications engineer. During the pandemic he became a manager and caregiver for an adult home in Newport News.

Jake was one of a kind. He had a warm soul and always gave the best hugs. He never hesitated to tell you he loved you. He will be remembered for his infectious laugh, smile, bright personality, sense of humor, and love for others. Jake always left a huge impact on anyone he met. Due to his military training, Jake was always aware of his surroundings. He would be the first to stop and help someone in need.

Jake enjoyed boating on the James River and the Chesapeake Bay and thrived on hosting friends and family. He made everyone feel welcome and made sure they were having a good time.

A celebration of Jake's life will be held at the Warwick Yacht and Country Club on Friday, March 15, 2024 from 4pm -6pm. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making a donation to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Until we meet again…

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Jason Sturtz's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

July 14, 2024

MRS posted to the memorial.

July 14, 2024

MRS posted to the memorial.

July 14, 2024

Mrs posted to the memorial.

MRS

July 14, 2024

I met Jake and Michele
On a cruise in the mediteranian. We became instand friends. They hosted us at their home and we traveled the world. Jake was one of a kind. A dear friend with open arms and a heart some genuine. I´ll miss his friendship. May he be out of life´s pain
And fly high. Until we meet again jakey

MRS

July 14, 2024

Mrs

July 14, 2024

Jake Sturtz. Always A gentleman. So engaging. A dear friend. Our birthdays are coming up and you won´t be here. I love and miss you. Your blue eyes are forever in our hearts. The Smiths love and miss you. I can´t believe you are gone may you fly high. Until we meet again. You are one of a kind.

Susan Teter Johnson

March 15, 2024

The last time I saw Jake...he talked about his journey...what he learned...love you, my cousin, Susan Teter Johnson

ELMIRA MELVIN PITCHFORD

March 13, 2024

Nina and Jim, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God wanted another angel and He took Jake. However, we wanted to be a little selfish and wanted to keep him longer. Our wants were outweighed. Rest in peace Jake. Your beautiful smile and personality will be missed immensely. The Melvin Family: Gloria Cox, Jimmy Melvin, Elmira Pitchford, Gwendolyn Banks, and Joyce Melvin-Jones.

Tasha

March 13, 2024

I, like my Grandma, always looked forward to "[her]-Jake" coming home. She would load him up with tasks and he would proudly complete every one. It was quite the laundry list, but I realized it was her way of saying "I love you," and I think he felt that too. He always took me along with him for whatever adventure Grandma got him involved in and I felt so proud to be his sidekick. He always encouraged me to try even though my little hands and curiosities probably slowed him down. He was my real life, big cousin MacGyver. I know you've sure got your hands full now, Jake - I'm sure Grandma found something along those streets of gold for you to fix! Save some for me.

Robin & Tom Dyer

March 13, 2024

Tom & I met Jake at the Piedmont Club in WS. From the beginning, we could tell he would be a great friend. I served as co-chair with Jake on the Club's Wine Committee. He was dedicated to making sure each event was done right & we had a great time planning all of them! While we have not seen Jake since he moved out of the area, our memories of his hugs, smile and generosity have stayed with us & we have enjoyed keeping in touch through social media. We will definitely miss seeing his photos, "likes" & comments on our posts. Our sincere condolences go to his family & friends.

Cynthia Evrard Dauby ( Mike )

March 13, 2024

We met Jake at a Big Head Todd concert. We just loved Jake and met up with him on many adventures. He stayed with us at our cabin and just loved the woods and nature here in Indiana. We were so sad to hear of his passing, he truly will be missed by so many for he touched so many lives. You and all of his family and friends are in our prayers. xo

Renee Lamury

March 12, 2024

It still hasn't really hit me that you aren't here any longer. I will miss you very much. I promise to look after Nina, as I recently adopted her as my younger sister (we have a lot in common). Until we meet again, my dear friend...
- Renee Lamury

Candice R Martin

March 12, 2024

Jake & I dated in high school. He was so good-looking and I loved his smile. I always wore his FFA jacket so I could smell him all day long. I am so sorry for your loss and will remember you in my prayers.

Candice (Stapleton) Martin
Pine Forest class of '88

Leslie Mashell Wilhelm

March 12, 2024

Never forget Jake's good looks and smile. He had a great love for his Grandmother, my Mom, which will always put a smile on my face. He was always kind and generous and will be missed. The Lord touched him with Angels wings, and he showed that through his generosity every day of his life
Love You always....You Aunt Leslie

Deanna Hardin

March 12, 2024

Will never forget our high school days. He was very special and had a million dollar smile. He is one of the best and will be missed.

Heather Horne

March 12, 2024

Jake was such a loving husband. That is what I always saw first, his love for Nina. Their love for one another is timeless. Love you both so much.

Jessica Norby

March 11, 2024

Jake was always a friendly welcome face in Cyclebar. He always made you feel like you were a winner, even if your were only a beginner. I remember Jake showing up for my 100th ride at Cyclebar. He was always there to cheer everyone on!

Stacie Thomas

March 11, 2024

In High School Jake always looked so serious but he was the nicest person. Rest well my friend.

Stacie Thomas
Pine Forest Class of '88

Debby Smith

March 11, 2024

Jake was one of a kind.. He will be missed terribly.. I will keep the entire family in my thoughts and prayers...

Michael Kell

March 11, 2024

Pine forest jr. High .
Jake was a stand up guy, always personable and genuine.
He recently reached out about our love of boating and suggested we get together sometime on the water.
RIP my friend. Gone but never forgotten.
Class of 88,
Michael Kell

Shelia M Robinson

March 11, 2024

God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Shelia Robinson

March 11, 2024

What I remembered most about Jake was his smile and warm embrace.when he meet you.

Debbie Hill

March 11, 2024

Jake was a good man and he will be missed. I pray for peace for Nina, Jimmy, and family.

Kathy Sturtz

March 11, 2024

Jake taught me the importance of excellence. In the late nineties when I worked for him he taught me to draw telecommunications blueprints. He said they were art. His truly were. My son the artist.

Kathy Sturtz

March 11, 2024

When the nurse laid you in my arms for the first time Karen Carpenter´s song CLOSE TO YOU was playing. Lyrics: On the day that you were born angels got together and decided to create a dream come true, so they sprinkled moondust in your hair and silver starlight in your eyes so blue. IT was your song, son. You were your mother´s dream come true.

Gullvi Mahn

March 11, 2024

His wonderful welcoming smile. The laughter we shared. Helping out when he noticed one was struggling with a chore. His joy of the nature around him, sunsets, on the James River & love of dogs. How he cherished his beautiful wife Nina.

Karen Lofland

March 11, 2024

Jake was a beautiful man on the inside and outside. When Nina's Uncle David was dying from cancer, Jake and Nina came by every dy and were so helpful and supportive. Jake touched our lives in a wonderful way. Forever in our hearts. RIP Jake.

Rene Wakefield

March 10, 2024

Thank you for the wonderful evenings at your home, enjoying laughs, friendship and sunsets on the beautiful river you loved so much.. Thank you for those bear hugs and the I love you's. Thank you for the memories. Love you always friend... Until another time.........

Showing 1 - 25 of 25 results

Make a Donation
in Jason Sturtz's name

How to support Jason's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Jason Sturtz's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Jason Sturtz's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

July 14, 2024

MRS posted to the memorial.

July 14, 2024

MRS posted to the memorial.

July 14, 2024

Mrs posted to the memorial.