John S. “Jay” Johnson, Jr., 53, and affectionately known as Jaybird, left “Almost Heaven” on Sunday, July 17, 2022, and went to his Heavenly Home.
Jay was born on August 2, 1968. He was preceded in death by his four grandparents, John & Marjorie Johnson, Virginia (Ferguson) & Clyde Williams.
He is survived by his loving and devoted parents, John and Dinah Johnson, sisters, Vicki Johnson and Kelly Tinsley and brother-in-law Mike Tinsley, all of Hurricane, WV, and his nephew, Mitchell Tinsley of Ft. Myers, FL.
Jay grew up in St. Albans. He loved music, WVU sports and his years spent at St. Albans High School, where he was the manager for the St. Albans baseball team under Coach Carter for three years. He cherished his relationship with Coach Carter and his time spent with the team. Jay was a sweet soul who loved his family. His favorite things were attending WVU football games with his dad, and/or staying home to watch the game and planning ahead with his mom the menu of good food to eat while watching the game! Jay loved a celebration, and would start making plans for his August Birthday Party in December as soon as Christmas was over!
Jay attended Highlawn Baptist Church all of his life while his health would allow, and when he could no longer go he would tell his Dad to ‘tell his church he said, Hi”. Jay was an inspiration to so many, because although he had so many health obstacles his entire life, he never complained, he never stopped loving everyone he knew fiercely and he never stopped finding the joy in life. His family was blessed to have him for 53 years, and the lessons he taught us and the love he gave will live in our hearts forever.
A Celebration of Jay’s life will be held 3:00pm at Highlawn Baptist Church, St. Albans, WV, on Wednesday, July 20, 2022, with Pastor Jason Robbins officiating. Friends will be welcomed from 1:30 to 3:00pm. Burial will follow at Cunningham Memorial Park.
In honor of Jay’s love of the West Virginia Mountaineers, we will all be wearing WVU attire, and if you can, we hope you will too! Donations in Jay’s memory may be made to ‘his church”, Highlawn Baptist Church, 2304 Jefferson Ave., St. Albans, WV 25177.
So sorry to hear of your loss Johnny and Dinah. Loved Jay’s smile… he always seemed so happy. He was so blessed to have you and Kelly.
Jay made an impression of happy, kind, interested in others — during the brief time he interacted w/me & clients at the PUTTY Recycling Center!
I will never forget his smile, attention to detail &
Friendly attitude – very serious guy & just an uplifting presence! GOD is happy to have him I am certain! My sincere Blessings & Prayers.
Karen & family.
Jay bird was always a positive person and a joy to be around at SAHS. May he Rest In Peace and his family find comfort during this difficult time. God bless.
So, so sorry for your loss. Much heartfelt love and prayers for Jay and all of Jay’s family.
Sincere condolences to all of you. So sorry for your loss.
Thoughts and Prayers from Jim & Debbie Perry!!