Obituary of Jay F. Mills

Jay Mills Jay Mills, exit stage left. He passed away peacefully on June 14. He was 83 years young. Jay graduated from University of Michigan in 1953. He has since been a very proud Wolverine's fan. Annually, he traveled back to U of M to cheer on his favorite football team. GO BLUE. He served his country in the US Army. Upon his honorable discharge; he started his family and his legacy began to grow. He worked in sales and marketing for many years, retiring from USA Today, as Spirits Manager. He enjoyed a rewarding 45 year acting and directing career. He was passionate about his avocation and the people with whom he worked. He is being remembered now and always as a loved and respected friend and mentor. He dedicated himself to all his pursuits.. Strangers and friends alike gravitated towards Jay and his all-embracing personality. He had a true gift of storytelling. He was a compassionate and devoted man and contributed greatly to the productions and life of the Barn Theatre Company and the Black River Playhouse. He was honored with the Luminary Award from USA Today for "Absolut Statehood Campaign", and received numerous awards for Best Actor and Best Director. Jay truly had an impact on the lives of so many people. He has left an impression on this world that will remain with all of those who had the fortune of knowing him. Some of his happiest memories were of time spent with his growing family on their annual trek to LBI. His greatest production of all was his family. He leaves only happy memories to his entire cast; Beloved wife, Barbara of 28 years; Kristen Keena, Jenny Mills, Erin Mills (Todd Shaeffer), Todd (Lauren), Michael Marshall (Beth), William Marshall (Allison), Brian Marshall, David Marshall (Brianne), adored grandchildren Tess, Ryan, Claire, Abigail, Finn, Max, Hannah, Olivia, Leala, Wyatt, Declan, Luna, Bennett; many dear colleagues, friends, and fans. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, June 19th at St. Pius X Church, 24 Changebridge Rd. Montville, NJ 07045. Call times are scheduled for Wednesday, June 17th from 7-9 pm and Thursday June 18th from 2-4 & 7-9pm at the Norman Dean Home For Services, 16 Righter Ave. Denville. Donations in his memory may be made to The Barn Theatre ,PO Box 102, Montville, NJ 07045.