Jay Robert Goldberg

Jay Robert Goldberg of New Caney, Texas was born on November 9, 1950 to Bernie and Selma Goldberg in Omaha, Nebraska. Jay passed away on December 10, 2024 in The Woodlands, Texas.
Jay is preceded in death by his parents and his beloved daughter, Karyn Rice Day. Jay is survived by Nila Rice Goldberg, his wife of 39 years, his son Bill Rice, brother David and sister Cheri Ann Stucke. He leaves numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, great nieces, nephews and great nephews. He was greatly loved and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Jay is a graduate of San Jose State. He had a lifelong passion for sports and in the 1980's he was able to begin his professional sports career. He was the Media Information Director for the University of Houston during the Phi Slama Jama era. He was with the Cougars during the three consecutive Final Four appearances from 1982-1984. It was at this time that he met and married Nila. From UH, he was hired as Sports Information Director for the Houston Rockets. He was with the team when they won back to back Championships in 1994 and 1995. Later in his career, he was tapped to help launch a basketball team in Manchester, England. He was the General Manager for the Manchester Giants and was instrumental in their Championship win. The Giants were owned by Cook Medical Group located in Indiana. When the team was sold, Cook was so impressed with Jay's work ethic and dedication, they created a position for him. He easily transitioned from sports to medical without hesitation and without slowing down for a minute. This career enabled him to visit many countries in Europe. In 2013, Cook wanted Jay and Nila to have the opportunity to return to Texas and their family. Jay continued his medical career with them until he retired in 2022.
Throughout his life Jay touched so many people in many positive ways. He always had a kind word and a heart as big as Texas. If you had the privilege of knowing Jay, you quickly found out that there was no man who was more honest, caring or trustworthy.
The family would like to thank doctors and staff at Methodist and Memorial Hermann hospitals as well as Regent and Exalt rehab hospitals for their excellent care. A special thank you to his dedicated nurse Ruth. Additionally, the family sincerely thanks neighbors and friends, Paul and Debra, for their continuous help and support over the last several years. Their love has been and continues to be unconditional. May Jay Robert Goldberg rest in eternal peace.