Jay Dee Strayer, age 86, of Rutherfordton

Jay Dee Strayer, age 86, of Rutherfordton, NC, passed away January 7, 2026.

Born January 13, 1939, Jay was the son of the late Warren A. Strayer and Margaret K. Smith Strayer. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Marjorie J. Straub.

Jay is greatly missed and remembered by his wife of 52½ years, Joan F. Muckerheide Strayer; his children, Tammy Jean Alvarez (Lee), Julia Ann Calkins (Art), and Jayson Dee Strayer (Elizabeth); his sister, Cathy Stahl, his grandchildren, Alex, Cyndi, Jacob, Kevin (Lindsay), Kyle (Mary), Nevis (Murial), and Oliver, and his great-grandchildren Dylan, Maddie, and Waylan.

Jay studied engineering at the University of Pittsburgh and enjoyed a distinguished 35-year career with General Electric and Lockheed Martin. He was a member and deacon of Green Hill Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Green Hill Baptist Church, 1941 US-74 ALT, Rutherfordton, NC 28139.

Services will be private. Online condolences may be made at www.crowemortuary.com.