Jay H. Anderson died peacefully at home while being read to by his daughter, Vickie, on December 7, 2020 at the age of 86.
Jay was born in Bothwell, Utah on June 12, 1934 and raised in Tremonton with his loving parents and 7 siblings. In his 20’s, Jay served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Northern States Mission. While on his mission he met Betty-Jo Aust. They later fell in love at BYU and were married in 1957. While attending BYU Jay played on the offensive line of the football team. He went on to join the army as a dental assistant. Upon finding out that he was “Mormon” and did not drink, he became a trusted truck driver.
While serving in the army, Jay and Betty-Jo lived in Colorado Springs, Colorado. After leaving the army they were employed in California, Nevada, Hawaii and Oregon before they decided to make Colorado Springs their home. They eventually built a home in the Black Forest. They were blessed with two children; a daughter, Vickie; and a son, David; whom they raised with love. Jay was known in Black Forest as a true cowboy. He raised horses, buffalo and sheep, all while he owned and ran his own construction business. Betty-Jo and Jay were also granted the opportunity to raise their 3 grandsons DJ, Nick, and Justin; and did so with grace and love.
Jay held many callings in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints including the Branch President of the then brand new Black Forest branch. He always served faithfully in his callings. He lived in Black Forest until shortly after Betty-Jo passed in 2007. He then moved to Salt Lake to be with his daughter Vickie who cared for him the remainder of his years.
Everyone who knew him, knew him as an honest, good and loving man. He had a wonderful smile, was a great listener and had a handsome thick head of hair. He loved to visit people, serve in the temple and love others. He will be greatly missed but was ready to join Betty-Jo in his heavenly home.
He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings and his wife Betty-Jo. He is survived by his children Vickie and David; his 3 grandsons, DJ, Nick and Justin; 9 great-grandchildren; and many friends.
Memorial services will be held at a later date.