Jay's Memory Wall
We encourage you to share your most beloved memories of Jay here, so that the family and other loved ones can always see it. Share your favorite stories or comment on those shared by others.
Sorry for you loss, Leslie and family! Jay was such an amazing soul! He touched and changed my life SO much over these past few years. He inspired self-confidence and excellence, and his passion was contagious. He helped me through personal issues and really fought for me. Jay championed causes he felt were unjust. Several times, he even threatened to pay my tuition haha. I wouldn't still be going to school without Jay. I took as many courses of his as I could. Everything I learned, I learned from Jay. I was excited for his next GIS certificate, finishing the software engineering degree and all the plans we had in the works. I never got to fully thank him for all that he did.
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Michael Shields II
May 6th, 2025 at 12:51pm
Wanted to come and express how much of a great and humorous professor Jay Keeled was! He always reassured his students of our success. I remember his interest in geology which was shown through his classroom decorations. I pray for healthy grieving of everyone.
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Bwendi Mngo
May 6th, 2025 at 7:59am
heartbroken is an understatement! I don't know how to finish this Semester without Jay, but I know he would, in the kindest, funniest way, push me to do it. You were the best professor in my program, and it will never be the same without you.
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Zalika
May 5th, 2025 at 12:35pm
The world was better because you were in it. Thanks for flying cover over all those students who needed your help, especially the ones who were struggling. You made a difference that changed their lives.
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Sharon Klemm
May 5th, 2025 at 12:16pm
A heart that touched so many people, who was so dedicated to his students, to education, a heart that loved his family, his friends, that heart will live on forever! I knew him for nearly 20 years, not just a great colleague but a very dear friend whose conversations I'm going to miss. My heart goes out to his family whom he loved dearly, and to all his students who lost such a great educator, advocate and mentor. I saw this and thought it was fitting, "To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die" Thomas Campbell.
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C.Phipps
May 5th, 2025 at 12:13pm
I am so sorry Leslie and family, for your loss. Jayβs love and joy when talking about his family was evident in every word. Jay was my colleague and friend, and over the years we had many conversations about academics, science, cats, butterflies, and plants. I will miss those chats. His dedication to student success and learning was evident in his work, his actions, and the passion with which he taught. He had a special light.
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Marilee Benore
May 5th, 2025 at 9:10am
Leslie and family, We are so very sorry for your loss! Jay is remembered by our family as a dedicated professor who understood each individualβs differences and needs. He will be remembered specifically by me, Gerry, because Jay always had my back. He was always supportive and had a kind word. We are keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Gerry, Tamara, and Gerrett Cox
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Gerry Cox
May 3rd, 2025 at 8:13pm
