Jay M. Hammond, 84, left this life on February 19, 2020. He was a loving man of outrageous, colorful humor and character.
Jay is survived by Marilyn, his wife of fifty-five years, their three children and six grandchildren: daughter Heather (and furbaby, Millie); son Trey, wife Nancy, sons Jacob, Lucas, Nicholas, Andrew; daughter Holly, husband Mike, children Barrett and Harper.
Whether it was telling stories and jokes or wearing interesting outfits, Jay had a quick wit, an uncanny memory for dates and events, and was fervent in his beliefs and musings about politics, social issues, stretching the envelope, and thinking outside the box.
Jay loved all music genres and supported the underdog. He coached a champion softball team in his teens, served in the Navy, earned a graduate degree from the University of Missouri, and ran for the Dallas City Council.
Jay was the only child of Merritt and Virginia Mourglia Hammond of Springfield, MO, where his love for the St. Louis Cardinals began. He
taught history courses for many years, beginning at El Centro College in 1966 and then at Brookhaven College until his retirement. H
e often traveled throughout Europe, both as tourist and guide for many of his students. He and Marilyn lived in Germany when first married and lived in Dallas for more than 50
years.
Two years ago,
Jay and Marilyn moved to Nashville, TN to be closer to family. He died peacefully in his sleep at a memory-care facility after a very brief stay. A family memorial service is being planned to celebrate his life. If you would like to honor and remember Jay, give your time or money to help someone in need, read a book or see a movie that makes you think, support a cause that benefits others, or go eat a really good burger with fries (one of his favorite meals) … and never stop laughing.