Jay W Mathis

Jay W. Mathis, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, departed this world on December 15, 2024, in Lake Worth Beach, Florida. Born on December 4, 1938, in Chicago, Illinois, Jay's life was a testament to love, family, and unwavering dedication.

As a child, Jay moved to Millville, New Jersey, where he met his future wife, Eleanor, in middle school. Their love story blossomed, culminating in marriage in 1955. Their 65 years together were characterized by love, adventure, and a commitment to family that spanned across New Jersey, Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania, and Florida. Together, they raised four children: Cathy, James, Suzanne, and Amy. Their legacy continues through their three grandchildren, Brian, Katelyn, and Erin, as well as four cherished great-granddaughters, Isabella, Anna, Elizabeth, and Billie.

Jay's career as a television technician began in the northeast, where he honed his skills at stations in Vermont and New York. His journey took him to WCAU in Philadelphia, where he dedicated 15 years of his professional life. Always driven by the dream of living in Florida, Jay and his beloved wife Eleanor made the move to Plantation in 1977. There, he served as chief engineer at WPLG in Miami for several years, before launching his own business selling broadcast equipment and transitioning into a freelance role as a video engineer, traveling the country to cover sports events. In the later years of his career, Jay proudly worked for the Miami Heat, Marlins, and the Florida Panthers, continuing to share his passion for broadcasting until his retirement at age 80 in 2018.

Active in his community, Jay was a devoted member of Our Savior Lutheran Church, contributing his time and effort to various church boards and serving as a reader, usher, and worship assistant. He also engaged with the Fort Lauderdale Rotary Club. Jay also had many hobbies and passions that he enjoyed including scuba diving, piloting his small airplane, and travelling around the world with his wife. He also held a deep appreciation for ham radio, a passion he shared with his father. 

As we remember Jay, we take comfort in knowing that he is reunited in heaven with his beloved wife Eleanor, his daughter Suzanne, and son-in-law William May. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit, his kindness, and the love he bestowed upon his family will forever resonate in our hearts.

A memorial service to celebrate Jay's remarkable life will be held on January 12, 2025, 12:30 pm, at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Plantation, Florida. It is a fitting tribute to a man whose life was deeply intertwined with faith, family, and community.