John T. "Jay" Pregent Jr.

Pregent, John T. "Jay" Jr.
DELMAR - John Thomas Pregent Jr., "Jay," passed away peacefully at home in Delmar, N.Y., on July 24, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 18, 1965, in Albany, N.Y., he lived a fulfilling life dedicated to his passions for film, community service, and devotion to family.
Jay was a cinema technician for over 30 years and was a proud champion of traditional film projection. He spent his career behind the scenes, ensuring that audiences across the country were able to experience the magic of the movies. Jay also spent eight years as a partner and manager of The Madison Theater in Albany, employing so many who shared his love of movies. His network of friends within the film industry grew through his work at renowned film festivals including Telluride, Sedona, Traverse City, and Turner Classic Movies. This circle of film industry friends humbled him with profound love and support throughout his illness.
A proud member of the Elsmere Fire Company A, Jay dedicated 42 years of his life to serving as a volunteer fireman. He joined the fire company at the age of 18, alongside his father, John Pregent Sr., who himself was a lifelong member. Jay's dedication to his community and fellow firefighters was a defining aspect of his life-whether answering emergency calls, mentoring young recruits, or simply spinning cotton candy at community events, he cherished every moment spent with the company. His fellow firefighters were so much more than friends; they were family. Their unwavering support throughout Jay's life is a testament to the strong bond within the company and will be forever remembered.
Jay earned an associate's degree in Technical Communication from Dutchess Community College, and continued his studies at the College of Saint Rose. He was also a lifelong parishioner of Mater Christi Catholic Church, where he served as a eucharistic minister.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Jay was known for his great sense of humor and his ability to uplift those around him with his jokes and love of comedy. Despite facing a life-threatening illness, he fought with strength, humor, and grace, remaining an inspiration to his family and friends. Above all, Jay loved his family dearly and was a proud uncle to his nieces, Lindsey and Autumn, always present to celebrate their accomplishments.
Jay is survived by his mother, Edrie Pregent; sister, Michelle Wright; brother-in-law, Michael Wright; nieces, Lindsey and Autumn Wright; and many loving cousins; as well as countless friends near and far.
Visitation will take place on August 1, from 4 to 7 p.m., at Applebee Funeral Home, 403 Kenwood Ave., Delmar. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on August 2, at 10:30 a.m., at the Parish of Mater Christi, located at 40 Hopewell Street, Albany. Burial will follow in Bethlehem Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Elsmere Fire Co. A, Inc., in Jay's memory.