Jay T. Pearsall Obituary
Jay T. PearsallIt is with profound sadness, but immense gratitude for a life well lived, that we announce the passing of Jay T. Pearsall at the age of 75. Jay was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, loyal friend, and a man whose kindness quietly touched countless lives. Jay graduated from Western Military Academy in Alton, Illinois, before continuing his education at Central Michigan University, where he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration.
Jay began his career with nineteen years as warehouse manager for Heilman Brewing Company in Frankenmuth Michigan. Later, Jay and his wife Mary Lynn became owners of Utermalen Furniture in Bay City, where Jay formed lasting friendships with customers and colleagues. Outside of work golf was one of his greatest pleasures. He always looked forward to his Monday and Thursday golf leagues with his longtime friends.
Jay treasured time spent with his son and best friend, Jeff. Whether they were taking a drive to the casino, stopping at Castaways, or simply enjoying each other's company, their bond was one of friendship, laughter, and countless memories that will forever be cherished.
One location held a special place in Jay's heart—the family beach house. It was more than just a home; it was where countless memories were made with family and friends. Fittingly, Jay's connection to the beach began almost from the very beginning of his life spending summers at the family cottage and a love affair with the shoreline that never faded. It became his sanctuary—a place of peace, laughter, sunsets, and togetherness. In recent months, the incredible beach community surrounded Jay and his family with compassion, friendship, meals, prayers, and countless acts of kindness that will never be forgotten. Their love helped carry the family through some of life's most difficult days.
Above all else, Jay's greatest love was his wife, Mary Lynn. Together they built a beautiful life centered around faith, family, friendship, and unconditional love. This October would have marked their 50th wedding anniversary, a milestone that reflected nearly five decades of unwavering devotion to one another. Their marriage was an example to all who knew them—a partnership built on respect, laughter, perseverance, and endless love. Jay's proudest accomplishments were never measured by business success or personal achievements, but by the family he loved so deeply.
Jay is survived by his devoted wife of 49 years, Mary Lynn and their two loving children, Jeff Pearsall of Bay City, Aaron (Kirsti) of East Grand Rapids and grandson Beckham the light of his life. Jay is also survived by sisters-in-law: Sister Roxanne Dansereau, Grand Rapids; Kathleen Dansereau, Canton, OH; Pam Pearsall, Jacksonville, FL; and nieces: Katie (Wade).
Swindell and Megan (Keith) Long as well as nephews Adam (Katie) Pearsall and Ernie Dansereau along with many great nieces and nephews all of whom he loved dearly.
He was preceded by his father and mother Ann & James Pearsall, brother Bill Pearsall, mother in law Marion Fournier, stepfather-in-law Leo Fournier, and brother in-law Noel Dansereau.
Jay believed in the importance of community and giving back to the place he called home. He was a proud member of Bay City Elks Lodge No. 88 and the Bay City Moose Lodge, where he enjoyed the fellowship, friendships, and sense of community that these organizations provided throughout the years.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, August 6, at Rivertown Funeral Chapel. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Jay's memory to New Dimensions of Bay City, Furnishing Friends/Helping Homeless Transition into Homes, or Area 9. Special Olympics.
Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort knowing that Jay's spirit lives on—in every round of golf, every peaceful sunset at the beach, and every loyal Golden Retriever.
He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.
