James Walter Lay

James Walter Lay, age 85, of Heber Springs, Arkansas, passed away on January 13, 2025 in Heber Springs, Arkansas. He was preceded in death by his parents, George Lay and Sally Chesbro Lay, and his brother, Dr. David Lay. He is survived by his wife, Sharen Lay, his brother, Dr. George Lay, as well as his other relatives and many friends.
James, or "Jim Bo" as he was lovingly referred to by family and friends was a loving son, brother, husband, and father. A Vietnam War Veteran, he proudly served his country in the Army Security Agency. Being a pipeline welder by profession, he traveled to, and lived in, nearly every state in the country, but his heart was always with his hometown and he always looked forward to coming home to Heber Springs. After retiring from pipelining, he devotedly served his community for sixteen years as a member of the Heber Springs City Council. Jim dearly loved his community and always said, "I always want the very best for the town and community." Always leaning toward the loquacious side, he never met a stranger, only additional people to count as friends as he journeyed through life. He was always willing to lend a hand or help someone in need. He loved talking about his Arkansas Razorback football, making jokes, and could play devil's advocate in any conversation.
As a young boy, he found his love of music while singing in the church choir. He expanded that love of music to a broader range as he aged, occasionally enjoying opera and eventually released a country music album, "Long Walk to Arkansas" when he was thirty-seven years old. His voice was low, resonant, and filled with genuine emotion; it drew you in and let you roam with him through his nomadic musings. Jim had many passions. He enjoyed golfing and always looked forward to his friendly Lee-Lay-Lee-Lay golf game during the holidays. He was a master in the kitchen and made dinner most nights. He loved to fish and hunt. He was extremely talented at finding antiques and restoring them to their former beauty. His infectious, billowing laugh and eye for seeing the beauty in all things, will be fondly remembered and dearly missed. Jim loved deeply and lived his life fully, and he will live on in our hearts.