James Dale Brogan

James Dale Brogan, better known to most as Jay, passed away on May 19, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a suspiciously large collection of knives. He was 52 years old and exactly as stubborn, sarcastic, and well-armed as he wanted to be.
Born on May 7, 1973, Jay was a man of many talents-chief among them: making people laugh, fixing just about anything (with just the right amount of duct tape or paracord), and pretending he didn't enjoy heartfelt moments. He had a sharp tongue, a sharper wit, and-if we're being honest-an even sharper blade tucked somewhere nearby.
Jay is survived by his loving wife, Laurie Rush, who somehow managed to keep him grounded (and somewhat polite) through the years. He was a proud and devoted father to his sons, Caine and Cody Brogan, who inherited his humor, his stubborn streak, and his ability to look like they know what they're doing, even when they don't. He was also a caring and supportive stepfather to Brandon Praeger, who shared many laughs, lessons, and side-eyes with Jay over the years.
He is also survived by his parents, Tom and Cathy Helmick; his brother, Eli Brogan; his niece and nephew, Lexi and Ethan Brogan; and his step-brother, Duane Helmick. Each of them carries a piece of Jay's spirit-whether it's the quick comebacks, the can-do attitude, or the ability to get through life with a multitool and a smirk.
Jay also leaves behind a large circle of extended family, including aunts, uncles, cousins, and in-laws, who will miss his stories, his loyalty, and the way he always managed to make family gatherings more fun, slightly louder, and a whole lot more entertaining. He was proud of his roots and always found a way to show up, crack a joke, or lend a hand when it mattered most.
A man of simple joys: a quiet morning, a sharp blade, a big fire on a cold winter night, and a predisposition for not being told what to do. He believed in being prepared-for anything from a flat tire to the end of the world. If he teased you, it was because he liked you. If he showed up to help, it was because he loved you. And if he left you speechless with a one-liner, well, that was just Jay being Jay.
He may have had an intimidating front, but he was also the kind of person who'd give you the shirt off his back-right after reminding you that you should've brought your own.
In lieu of flowers, go touch some grass. Tell your kid you love them. Make fun of someone you care about. And if you're drinking something cold, raise it high. If you can do them all at once, Jay would've been proud.
Visitation will begin at 3:00 P.M. followed by the Memorial Service at 4:00 P.M. on Saturday, June 7, 2025 at Mission Park Medical Center, 8332 Fredericksburg Road. The Celebration of Life will follow at The Urban Yard, 8222 Wurzbach Road.
To plant a tree in Jay's memory, please visit: https://shop.alivingtribute.org