Jay,

Finding the right words to say has been tough. First off, my heart goes out to your entire beautiful family. I pray that God guides and comforts you all through this difficult time.

From when I was first hired by you, I immediately knew that you were going to be a great leader, but I had no clue how much impact you would make on me. You taught me skills and helped me build confidence that has paved the way for my professional career.

However, you weren’t just a boss.  You became a role model, my mentor and dear friend. You always had some of the best advice, you could always turn the situation from bad to good and more importantly, you always looked out for me. 

We used to have long talks about life, family, fishing and so much more. You would talk about what it takes to be a good husband and father. Your stories about your family and how much you loved your kids were always so inspirational. I would use that advice to help make me a better man for my family.

During some of my lowest times, you were right there to make sure I didn’t fall down on my face. For that, I will always be grateful for you. 

From my long car ride talks, fly fishing trips or just having a few beers after a long day. I always walked away with something that would help me grow as a person.

Jay, I’m going to miss you dearly my brother. You will always hold a very impactful place in my heart.  I truly appreciate you looking out for me and my family. Always keeping in touch and I’m so privileged/blessed  to have gotten to know you the way I did.  Thank you for changing my life and helping me become a better man! 

I love you, Jay…until we meet again my brother! I’ll be looking forward to fly fishing trip we still have planned. 

Rest easy my friend!

Man… I miss you more than words can say. You weren’t just my Regional Sales Director — you were my brother, my mentor, my friend. You always led with heart, with purpose, and with real love for the people around you. I still hear your stories about your kids, the way your whole face lit up when you talked about them — and your love for your wife, that deep respect and admiration, it was inspiring. You showed me what it meant to be a good man, not just in business, but in life.

We didn’t just talk shop — we checked on each other. We made sure we were both good. You had a way of making people feel seen, like they mattered, and I’ll carry that with me forever.

I love you, Jay. I wish I could talk to you one more time. Just one more call to hear your voice, your laugh, to tell you thank you for being who you were.

You left a mark on this world — and on me. And I’ll never forget you.

Rest easy, brother.