Mr. Jay taught me so much more than the standard 5th grade curriculum. He taught me life lessons which, I call upon to this day, nearly three decades later.

I am not ashamed to admit that Mr. Jay was the best teacher I have ever had. I am ashamed to admit however, that I didn't appreciate, or recognize his efforts until I had moved onto the next grade.

I also never got a chance to shake his hand, and, genuinely thank him for helping to make me who I am today, and, for being an all around awesome man.

I never encountered another teacher whom every other teacher in the school liked, and, who could make every student in his class, or, in the schoolyard smile or laugh with a joke or display of outrageous school spirit. (I can still see him doing his alligator/crocodile clap.)

I am glad to have known him, and, I will never forget him.

My sincerest condolences to his family, and, loved ones.

It was such a previlage to be on his path even so it was brief his calm manner and reassuring smile was unmatched.

RIP