Jay A. Sturgill

Jay Andreu Sturgill, age 65, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on January 19, 2026, at Schneck Medical Center in his beloved hometown of Seymour, Indiana. Born on May 13, 1960, Jay lived a life marked by humor, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to helping others.

For over 37 years, he dedicated himself to Valeo in Seymour, where he not only showcased his industrious spirit as a reliable employee but also cultivated relationships with co-workers that mirrored the warmth he extended to everyone he met. A 1980 graduate of Bedford North Lawrence, Jay carried with him throughout his life the values instilled in him by his family and community—a commitment to selflessness, friendship, and learning.

His vibrant personality illuminated every gathering, earning him a reputation as "the nicest person you could ever meet." Jay never met a stranger; he embraced everyone he encountered with open arms and genuine interest. He had a remarkable ability to teach while he helped, a characteristic that endeared him to friends and family alike.

Outside of work, Jay was adventurous at heart. He loved fishing and anything that allowed him to bask in the great outdoors. California held a special place in his heart; it served as an expansive playground for his adventures. A true handyman, he took great pleasure in tinkering around and transforming his yard into a cherished sanctuary. Above all, he adored his beloved wife and family.

A devoted family man, Jay is survived by his beloved wife of 35 years, Eva Lee Sturgill of Seymour, Indiana, and his biological daughter Tonya Dye and her husband Dan of Courtland, Indiana. His family expanded through love and devotion, embracing bonus daughters Cathy Brock of Seymour, Indiana, Sandy Reed and her husband Drew of Seymour, Indiana, Lorrie Irwin and her husband Scott of Medora, Indiana, as well as bonus sons Jeff Cravens and his wife Vannesa of Seymour, Indiana, and Jerry Cravens and his wife Rachel of Columbus, Indiana. Jay's legacy continues through his three grandchildren, thirteen bonus grandchildren, and twelve bonus great-grandchildren, who were the light of his life and source of immeasurable joy.

Jay is also survived by his sisters Trecia Bumgardner and her husband Ronnie of Brazil, Indiana, and Patricia Stout and her husband Jim of Freetown, Indiana, and his uncle Fred Sturgill of Seymour, Indiana, alongside his aunt Janet Jenner and her husband Wayne of Sunman, Indiana.

He was predeceased by his father, A. J. Sturgill, and his mother, Emma Archer Batson, who undoubtedly instilled in him the values that would shape his kind and giving nature.

Visitation will be held at Christensen Family Funeral Home in Seymour, Indiana, on January 23, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by a funeral service beginning at 1:00 PM with Pastor Larry Bennett officiating. He will be laid to rest at Riverview Cemetery.

As we remember Jay Andreu Sturgill, let us celebrate the profound impact he had on our lives and the love he shared so freely. His laughter, wisdom, and generosity will forever resonate in our hearts, guiding us as a beacon of light. In the stories shared and the memories cherished, Jay will live on through those who were fortunate enough to have known him.

Memorial donations can be made to the funeral home or Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Indiana Chapter, 8445 Keystone Crossing, Suite 135, Indianapolis, IN 46240.

Friends are invited to leave condolence messages for the family at www.christensenfamilyfuneral.com.

Daniel and Betsy Christensen have been entrusted with the arrangements.