Jay Alan Hershberger

Jay Alan Hershberger passed away peacefully at 78 years of age on Friday, April 26, 2024 in Live Oak, Fla. "Mr. Jay," as many called him, was born on May 24, 1945, in Jackson, Mich., to Carl K. Hershberger and Doris Alsid Hershberger. He was reborn on Dec. 15, 2013, when he accepted Christ as his Savior.

He was preceded in death by his aforementioned parents, and is survived by his sister, Kay Lashbrook; his four children, Lisa Gotch-Portillo, Mark Hershberger, April Darrow and Mary Hershberger, as well as six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

By trade, Mr. Jay was a highly skilled tool and die maker for many years while living in the state of Michigan. After retiring early and moving to Florida, he obtained a real estate license and worked for Southern Sky Realty in Mayo. He loved Harleys, fishing, driving in the country, a good hamburger and peanut M&Ms. He also liked watching TV shows such as "How It's Made," "Dr. Pol" and "Man v. Food." He will be greatly missed by family and friends.

The family wishes to express sincere gratitude to the nursing staff at Good Samaritan Center at Advent Christian Village in Live Oak, Fla., for the thoughtful and attentive care they gave Mr. Jay in the brief time he was a resident there.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, May 9, at Burns Funeral Home in Perry, Fla. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. with the service to follow at 11 a.m. with Bro. Chan Perry of Mayo, Fla., officiating. All arrangements are under the direction of Burns Funeral Home. A private internment ceremony will be held at a later date.

Friends may sign the online guest book at www.joepburnsfuneralhomes.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mayo First Assembly of God for their food ministry by sending a check to 294 SE Mill St., Mayo, Fla. 32066. Please note "Food Ministry" on the check.