Jonas B. Baughman III

As a child, Jay was enrolled in dance classes to combat clumsiness and later took up music lessons-both of which led to a lifelong love of performance. He entertained at events and formed Jay Baughman and the Rhythm Knights. During his high school years in Springfield, Massachusetts, he was the only one among his peers with a car and gas rations, making him a sought-after friend. He graduated from Springfield High School in 1945, with plans to attend the Eastman School of Music. However, his aspirations were put on hold when he was drafted in 1945 at the end of World War II.
Jay actively served in the U.S. Army from April 1946 to April 1947. Stationed in Korea during the occupation, he was reassigned to the 7th Division Military Band after contracting malaria, a twist of fate that allowed him to continue his passion for music while serving with honor.
After his military service, with careers in music no longer offering a sustainable living, Jay opted for a degree in Business Administration from American International College in Massachusetts in 1951. He married Jeanne Sevigny on September 12, 1950, and after moving to Florida together they had two daughters, Jill Marguerite (1952-1953) and Carol Lynn, before divorcing in 1957.
Jay began his professional career as a salesman with Procter & Gamble in 1958, retiring in 1980. He married Jaquelyn Cole on September 25, 1959, and lovingly adopted her two children, Linda and Jack. While raising their family, he furthered his education, earning a Master of Business Administration from Florida Atlantic University in 1972. He even taught night classes in business, sharing his expertise with eager students.
In 1980, Jay and his family relocated to Lake County, Florida. Never one to slow down, he & Jacque founded Custom Closets of Lake County in 1986. Jay later ventured into real estate and building spec homes. His career expanded through partnerships, including J. Christopher Homes, which he co-founded with his grandson Chris Mowers in 1996. Together, they built over 100 custom homes in Lake County. Jay also played a vital role in providing in-home elder care for his in-laws and later his beloved wife, Jaquelyn.
A dedicated member of his community, Jay was actively involved with the Greater Lake County Association of Realtors, the Home Builders Association, the Lake County BPOE Lodge 1578, Eustis Kiwanis, and the Mount Dora Lodge 238 Free and Accepted Masons.
Following his retirement in 2000, Jay and Jaquelyn embarked on cross-country adventures in an ever-changing array of motor homes, embracing life's journey with humor and resilience. After being widowed in 2012, he remained active and engaged, surrounded by family and friends who adored him. His wit and warmth left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
Jay is survived by his children: Carol B. Ward, L. Lee Mowers ("Fritz"), and Jack Baughman (Sara); grandsons: Chris Mowers (Christina), Matthew Baughman (Mona), Marcus Baughman; and great-grandsons: Nicholas and Jacob Mowers, and Blake and Bryce Baughman. His legacy of love, laughter, and perseverance will live on through his family and all those whose lives he touched.
Jay left us with these musings: "I've often wondered what kind of life and career I would have had if I would have chosen to go to music school instead of business college. In the end I'm glad I didn't because I would never have met Jacque and had 53 wonderful years of marriage and a relationship that has left me with precious memories. These memories of things with our children Lee, Carol and Jack, the things we shared together, good and bad, the cruises we took, the RV experiences as we traveled the country and made new friends, etc. etc. In reality these memories are what are important and in the end are all we have left to take with us."
A celebration of Jay's life will be held at Hamlin and Hilbish chapel on Saturday March 1, 2025, at 2:00 PM, friends and family are free to gather at 1:30 PM prior to the service.
Parking for Hamlin & Hilbish will be in the parking lot across the street next to Lake Eustis Christian Church. There will be cones, a sign, and possible police assistance with crossing. For those unable to walk or needing additional assistance there is parking in the back of the building.
For those unable to attend the service simply click on the link provided below at the time of service for those to attend virtually. The service will also be recorded for anyone unable to attend virtually at the time of the service.
https://webcast.funeralvue.com/events/northstar/110051/hash:3DCED3388FCE70D2
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Best Friends Animal Society or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
https://bestfriends.org/?form=FUNLJQZPGEN
https://www.stjude.org/donate/
Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared on the tribute wall.