Sharon Tex Jay 1942-2026

Born June 2nd, 1942, in Albuquerque, NM, the only child of Forrest Guthrie and Ruby Black Guthrie. Sharon lost her mother, Ruby, to leukemia when she was two years old. Due in part to her mother's early passing, Sharon had a deep bond with her father, Forrest. Sharon and her father shared many adventures together throughout her childhood. Traveling to places like California and Oregon.

Sharon graduated from High School in Chickasha, OK, before returning to New Mexico for college. During one of her summer breaks from school, she went to visit her aunt and uncle in Anaheim, CA. On this trip, she met her late husband, Gary Jay. The two later married on June 4, 1961, in Clovis, NM. In the summer of 1962, Sharon and Gary welcomed their first child, Shari L Jay. The next year, they welcomed the birth of their son, Kirk A Jay. The family lived in Stillwater, Ok while Gary attended school at OSU. Upon Gary's graduation, the family moved to Oklahoma City, where Sharon worked for the Oklahoma Health Department. In 1972, upon Gary's graduation from law school, the family moved to Shawnee, OK. During her 53 years living in Shawnee, Sharon participated in many community activities, including but not limited to: Campfire leader, Cub Scouts den mother, Junior Service League (former president). She also attended St. Paul's Methodist church and participated in many church functions.

In 1999, Gary and Sharon welcomed their granddaughter, Ruby Jude Jay-Mustafa (Portland, OR). Sharon spent a lot of time visiting with her daughter and granddaughter, both in Oregon and Oklahoma.

In 2021, Shari moved back to Oklahoma to care for Sharon during a time of health issues. In the years spent living together, Shari and Sharon became very involved with the SPAR dog rescue. Their home saw many foster dogs, with one in particular (Freddy) winning their hearts. In 2025, with their dog, Freddy, and their cat, Carlton, in tow, the pair would embark on a cross-country road trip to move to Portland, OR. Although her time in Portland was cut short, she got to enjoy her wonderful new home dubbed "her happy home", make new friends, see many beautiful new sights, and spend much cherished time with family.

Sharon was a generous, compassionate woman, loyal, and kind. She was steadfast in her love for her family, friends, and what was right. Sharon knew the healing ability of a bowl of strawberry ice cream and/or pie. And, no day was complete without a Diet Coke... or two. Sharon was quick-witted, with a sharp mind up until the very end.

On January 6th, Sharon suffered a tragic fall. She spent eight days being cared for by the wonderful team at OHSU. On January 14th, 2026, Sharon unfortunately succumbed to her injuries. She is survived by her Daughter (Shari Jay), her Son (Kirk Jay), and her Granddaughter (Ruby Jude Jay-Mustafa). She will be forever loved and missed. 

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