Harvey Jay Witherell

Harvey "Jay" Witherell, of Brooksville, was born November 12, 1956, in Washington, D.C., to Harvey and Mary Frances Witherell. One of five children, Jay grew up mostly in Maryland, with time overseas due to his father's State Department career. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy at 18, serving four years as an Operations Specialist. In 1977, Jay encountered Jesus and committed his life to Christ, a decision that changed everything.
In 1979, he met Elizabeth, the love of his life. They married the following June and raised six children: Daniel, Andrew, Nathan, Benjamin, Jacob, and Rachel. After tragically losing Daniel at age two, Jay became an advocate for drowning prevention, traveling the state to educate others.
Jay dedicated his life to his family, faith, and community. He served 30 years with Largo Fire Rescue as a firefighter/paramedic and worked part-time as an EMT at Hernando County Jail. Deeply committed to homeschooling, he supported Elizabeth by teaching and leading, even serving as the only father to chair the Home Circle of Hernando.
Jay was active in ministry, including 20 years with Vida Nueva Tampa Bay. He was known as a gifted "fix-it" man, CPR instructor, and a servant-hearted friend. He loved motorcycles, baseball games, and one-on-one time with his children and grandchildren.
In March 2024, Jay began a 15-month health battle, enduring hospitalizations and treatments with grace and strength. His unwavering faith was evident in nightly prayers, always thanking God and lifting his family by name.
Jay Witherell was a man of deep faith, immense love, and steadfast character. He is profoundly missed.