Jay Lloyd Wolford

Jay Lloyd Wolford passed away on August 19, 2025, in Newton, Utah.

Jay was born September 9, 1963, to Donald and Janet Wolford. He grew up in Logan, Utah in a close-knit family. His early life was filled with love, adventure, and traditions that helped shape Jay into the kindhearted man he would become.

Jay was a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and dedicated two years of young adulthood serving a mission in Michigan. It was a defining experience—Jay loved sharing the gospel and forming lasting bonds with the people he met. He held a strong testimony and cherished all his callings to serve the church. Jay’s nightly prayers would often run long as he listed the many people he loved, asking for blessings for each of them.

Jay’s most cherished role in life was that of husband, father, and grandfather. He and his first wife, Julie Nelson, share four children: Katelyn, Candace, Rachael, and Nicholas. He later married Gayle Davidson, and together with her son Justin and daughter Brooke formed a beautiful family. They soon welcomed their son Jayden. Jay’s family circle expanded once more on November 11, 2022, when he married Jackie Jones. Jay embraced and cherished her children: Tyler, Travis, Jaylene, Robert, Jessica, and Jerica. He treasured each one of them, holding space for memories, conversations, and love.

To all his children…by birth or by bond…Jay gave his whole heart.

Jay loved the rumble of his Harley-Davidson, the energy of rock concerts, and the comfort of sharing a good meal. He was a natural animal whisperer; his dogs were constant companions and attached at the hip on his travels. Jay also had a remarkable ability to connect with other people. He could spot a quiet soul in the corner and light them up through conversation. His kindness lingered beyond the moment, showing up in thoughtful messages, words of gratitude and encouragement that his loved ones treasured.

Jay graduated from USU with a business degree. He was employed with State Farm Insurance for 32 years where he excelled in many aspects of the business, received numerous certifications, and found success in the insurance world. He loved and enjoyed the people he worked with over the years. They were kind, patient, and ready to help when tough times rolled in.

Children especially gravitated toward Jay. His tenderness drew them in, and many would run to him the moment he arrived. His hugs were unforgettable; warm, strong, and long enough to let you feel how deeply he loved. For those who knew him well, those hugs became a language of their own: a reminder that you were safe, seen, and cared for.

Even when life felt heavy, Jay’s heart for service never dimmed. He was the one you could call when you were in a pinch, the first to show up to help, and the last to speak poorly of anyone. He lifted others even while carrying his own burdens, often admiring and praising the strength and goodness he saw in those around him. Mental health is a tender and complicated battle, and sometimes those who love the most are fighting the hardest on the inside.

Jay is survived by his wife, Jackie Jones Wolford; his children and bonus children; many adored grandchildren; and his siblings, Julie (Richard) King, Mike (Pat) Wolford, Allan(Laura) Wolford, and LuElla (Vern, deceased) Holt. He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents, who now welcome him home.

Jay will be remembered for his depth of character, tender words of encouragement, and the way he truly saw and loved those around him. His legacy is one of love, faith, kindness, and presence.

He will be missed more than words can ever say. And yet, in every hug we give, every child we lift, every act of kindness we offer, we will carry Jay with us.

All services will be held at the Amalga LDS church at 6521 North 2400 West. There will be a viewing on Monday, September 1, 2025 from 5:00- 7:00 PM, a viewing the following day, Tuesday, September 2, 2025 from 10:30-11:30 AM, followed by the Funeral Service at 12:00 PM.

Memories and condolences may be shared and expressed at www.allenmortuaries.com