Jay Warren Crooks

Jay Warren Crooks, a lifelong resident of Albany, Oregon, passed away on September 22, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and creativity. Born on March 24, 1951, in Eugene, Oregon, Jay was the beloved son of Jay Morris Crooks and Shirley Isabel Stelzer. As a young man, he traveled across the United States as a member of a boys choir, sharing his beautiful voice with audiences far and wide, and was an active member of the Hill Street Church of Christ during his youth.

Jay graduated from Albany Union High School and chose to make Albany his permanent home, where he built a life rooted in family, hard work, and simple joys. He worked alongside his father at Smoke Craft for many years and later, he drove trucks for Simplot until a hip injury ended that chapter. Before retiring, he briefly worked for City Delivery.

A man of many passions, Jay found joy in the natural world and the creative arts. He was an avid rock hound and camper, happiest under open skies. His collections of Hot Wheels and hand-blown glass reflected his appreciation for craftsmanship and detail. Jay also created stained glass pieces and built model rockets. He had a lifelong enthusiasm for classic cars and racing.

Jay was preceded in death by his parents, Jay and Shirley. He is lovingly remembered by his children—step-son Corey, daughter Cara, and sons Aaron and Kevin—and by his grandchildren: Isaiah, Gideon, Elijah, Grace, Lindsey, CJ, Mateo, and Kayla, each of whom brought him immense pride and joy. He will be deeply missed by his brother Tim, sister LeAnn, and brother-in-law Doug, as well as by extended family and friends who knew him as a gentle soul with a generous heart.