Jay M. Van Hook

Jay Martin Van Hook of Oviedo, Florida, passed away on August 20, 2023 at the age of 84. Jay was born in Clifton, New Jersey, on January 9, 1939. Jay graduated from Calvin College and earned a Ph.D. in Philosophy from Columbia University.
Jay wed Mary P. Westra on August 31, 1960. They shared nearly 62 years of marriage before she passed in August 2022. Together they lovingly raised four kids, sought out adventures and friendships around the world, and expressed their Christian faith through acts of service.
Jay was a devoted teacher and scholar. He was a professor of philosophy, spending most of his career at Northwestern College (Iowa) and the University of Central Florida. His engaging lectures and thought-provoking discussions ignited intellectual curiosity in his students. He had a keen interest in theology and taught courses in ethics and the philosophy of religion, and co-edited a book of essays on the French philosopher & theologian Jacques Ellul. During the later part of his career, Jay pursued a passionate interest in African Philosophy collaborating with African philosophers and scholars on research and guest teaching at the University of Nairobi and the University of Zimbabwe. He also helped foster global understanding by leading several study abroad programs to South Africa.
Jay was a member of Winter Park Presbyterian Church where he enjoyed leading Bible studies and singing in the choir. He was active in many social Justice causes including Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida.
Jay was a caring, loving and generous father and grandfather. Jay loved animals (especially his three cats), traveling the world with his wife, reading, and was a lifelong Dodgers fan. Jay loved good food, exploring new cultures, meeting new people, engaging in debates about theology and politics.
Jay is survived by his sister Marguerite Van Hook and his four children and their spouses, Carie and Patrick Jasperse, Stephen and Jennifer Van Hook, Suzanne Van Hook and Isaac Appiah, and John Van Hook and Wendy Levine; his grandchildren, Jacob Van Hook, Dietre Van Hook, Peter Jasperse, Isabelle Appiah, Joseph Jasperse, and Randy Van Hook.
A memorial service will be held at State College Presbyterian Church (Pennsylvania) on September 16, 2023 at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Humane Society (www.humanesociety.org) or any local pet shelter/rescue, the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida (www.centralfloridahomeless.org), or the Jay and Mary Van Hook scholarship at Northwestern College (www.nwciowa.edu/give2nwc).
Arrangements were entrusted to the Haky/Georgiana Centre County Funeral Home. An online guestbook may be signed and condolences left for the family at www.hakygeorgianafh.com
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