Jay was a beautiful man, both physically and spiritually. He had the sort of grace and charisma that made him stand out in a crowd. Those of you who have attended one of the last three Spring Mysteries Festivals will recall him portraying the Dark Lord for the last two years, and the Dadachous the year before that. At Hecate's Sickle in 1996 he played the role of Taliesin.
Like the tip of an iceberg, these accomplishments were only a small portion of all that Jay did for the pagan community. Behind the scenes, he created ritual masks, designed costumes and provided his expertise in scripting and staging. The enthusiasm and sheer brilliance that he brought to ritual drama inspired his directors and fellow actors alike, raising the quality of any ritual in which he participated.
Most important of all was his dedication as a priest. Jay never forgot the seriousness of that responsibility and fulfilled it with a unique flair, intelligence and depth of understanding. He gave himself to the service of the gods and to the divine within us all, and for that gift we will be forever in his debt.
An informal wake was held for Jay in the evening on Saturday, May 30th. Formal services are, unfortunately, delayed by legal concerns. We are all grateful for the way Jay touched our lives, whether we knew him well or simply saw him from a distance; and we will remember him with joy and love in our hearts. Contributions in Jay's memory may be sent to the Northwest AIDS Foundation, or to the Chicken Soup Brigade.
Debi remains in a coma at this time, but doctors say that they expect her to come out of it within a week or two. Get well, sympathy and good wishes cards and gifts for her may be sent care of: Paige Foster at 16419 Spruce Way, #I-1, Lynnwood, WA, 98037. Paige will compile these and see that they get to Debi as soon as she is awake enough to appreciate them.
Editor's note: Condolences and healing energy from the Widdershins staff and the members of Sylvan Grove go out to Debi and Debi and Jay's close friends and families. Please remember them in your rituals and prayers.
May the gods welcome Jay.
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