Wiley Jay Howard

Wiley Jay Howard
January 23, 1955 - January 21, 2026
Wiley Jay Howard, known to many simply as Jay, passed away on January 21, 2026, just days before his 71st birthday.
Jay was born on January 23, 1955, in Plainwell, Michigan, to Lavotis (Reed) Minix and Wiley Howard. He was known throughout his life for his easygoing nature, warm heart, and ability to strike up a conversation with anyone-he truly never knew a stranger and was kind to everyone he met.
Jay worked as a timber buyer and spent many years working alongside his brother Henry at Whitaker Logging. He also worked at O's Tap, one of his favorite establishments and a place where he enjoyed being around people. While Jay took pride in his work, his greatest job-and greatest joy-was being a grandfather to his three grandchildren, Andrew, Shane, and Sophia. He especially loved bringing treats to his "Pumpkin," Sophia, a small act that brought him great happiness.
In his free time, Jay enjoyed hunting, throwing horseshoes, shooting pool, playing bingo, and relaxing with a cold beer. He loved a good time and the company of others, and he brought laughter wherever he went.
Jay is survived by his children, Alisia (Kenny) Van Asdall and Jennie Prado, both of Knox, IN; his grandchildren, Andrew Van Asdall of Indianapolis, IN Shane Van Asdall, and Sophia Prado of Knox, IN; his sisters, Rita Long and Donna (Greg) Stiles of Plymouth, IN, Wanda Dugard of Pendleton, IN, and Ellie Mae Whitaker of Plainwell, MI; and Beverly Howard of North Judson, IN, with whom he shared many years of life.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lavotis (Reed) Minix and Wiley Howard; his brother, Henry Whitaker; and his sisters, Pauline Gill, Betty Gayheart, Barbara Risner, and Phyllis Ann Summey, Carol Jean Risner, Ressie Kae Howard.
Jay will be remembered for his friendly spirit, generous heart, and love of family. He leaves behind many cherished memories and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him

Friends will be received Tuesday, January 27, 2026  from 10 AM till time of service at 1 PM, at the Braman and Bailey Funeral Home in North Judson, Indiana.

Services will be held Tuesday, January 27 at 1 PM at the Braman and Bailey Funeral Home with Kenneth Van Asdall officiating.

Interment will follow in Highland Cemetery in North Judson, Indiana.  

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