James William Jay

1939 - 2022

JAY, James William, age 82, passed away on June 3, 2022, in Richmond, Virginia. Born July 28, 1939 in Clarksburg, West Virginia, Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Maxine and William Jay. He is survived by his wife, Diane Jay of Richmond; and his children, Andrew (Heidi) Jay, Jennifer (Brad) Beacham of Lexington, Virginia and Leah (Joseph) Hicks of Richmond; six grandchildren, Jackson, Addie Jay, Miller, Peyton, Judson and Mary Jude; and sisters, Carolyn Hoover and Patricia Ramsburg; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Jim graduated from Glenville State College and earned a graduate degree from the University of Virginia. He served as a teacher, athletic coach, principal and superintendent of schools in Ohio, West Virginia and Virginia. When once asked why he chose to enter education, he said he felt there was no better opportunity to serve youth. In his retirement, Jim worked in a family business, Friedman's Loan Office. He was a member of Congregation Beth Ahabah. He was also a Mason for over 50 years. A man of integrity and honor, Jim enjoyed the company of family and friends and will be remembered for his kindness, wit and compassion for others. He enjoyed good books, a lively debate and conversations with people who had life experiences and a point of view that opened up new ways of thinking for him. He contributed on so many levels, leaving the world a better place and for that he will always be remembered as a good guy.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, June 13, 2022, at Congregation Beth Ahabah, 1121 W. Franklin Street at 11 a.m. A livestream of the funeral service can be found at www.blileys.com. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to a favorite charity.