Jay J. Stephens

Jay Stephens, 59, passed away on Friday, February 28, 2025, at Mercy Health St. Rita’s. 

 Jay was born on September 19, 1965, in Ocala, Florida to John Henry and Lucille (Poplin) Stephens. 

 Jay was a 1984 graduate of Lima Senior High School. Jay loved to work and he loved animals. He worked at Metakote, AAP, Honda, and most recently Steiner Stock Farms as a farmhand. He also enjoyed attending church at Open Door Baptist Church and going to Cedar Point every year. 

 He is survived by his children, Beath (John) Miller and Cody Stephens; a grandchild, Avalin Stephens; adoptive mother, Susan Hurley; siblings: Joe Poplin, Tim Hurley, Johnny Stephens, Susan (Kenneth) Decker and Marie Stephens; and his dogs, Maxine and Roxy.

 He is preceded in death by his parents and adoptive dad, Dennis Hurley. 

 The funeral service will begin at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Open Door Baptist Church in Lima. Pastor Turner will officiate. 

 Arrangements handled by Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed at www.chamberlainhuckeriede.com.