Thursday, August 31, 2017 7:55 am

Jesse Eugene (Jay) Huntley II, age 53, of Wilmington, passed away Wednesday, August 23, 2017.

A native of Forest City, he was a son of Jesse Eugene (Gene) Huntley and wife Beckie of Forest City and Yvonne Ford Hayes and husband Bob of Shelby.

Jay was a graduate of East Rutherford High School and an honors graduate of NC State University. Following, he served his country as a Lieutenant in the US Navy Nuclear Program as part of a submarine fleet. He began his career with Duke Energy in 1991 and was currently the station manager at Sutton Energy Complex in Wilmington. Jay was a former member of Center Grove Baptist Church, Clemmons, and was currently a member of Life Point Church, Wilmington. He was a passionate leader and teacher in church, youth and vacation bible school.

In addition to his parents, Jay is survived by his wife Cathy Botts Huntley of the home; a son, Trey Huntley and wife Kimberly of Las Vegas, NV; a daughter, Morgan Huntley of Winston-Salem; brother, Greg Huntley and wife Donna; his father and mother-in-law, Dewey and Frances Botts; brother-in-law, Mike Botts and wife Denise; nieces, Paige Scruggs and husband Kyle, Whitney Rumfelt and husband Jordan; nephews, Matt Huntley, Travis Botts and wife Kassidy and Chase Botts.

The funeral service was held in the Center Grove Baptist Church. A graveside service was held in the Cool Springs Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Padgett & King Mortuary & Crematory.