Lewis "Jay" Irby, Jr.

Jay Irby of Pensacola, Fl left us February 11, 2021 to ride the endless miles of heaven. He spent his final days in his home, surrounded by his loving wife and children. Known as a friend to those in need, Jay was always ready, willing and able to talk to anyone with a problem and offer guidance. He was quick with a smile and generous to a fault. To Jay, there were no strangers. Artistic and creative, Jay poured much energy and passion into building and decorating the infamous “Wooly Bully,” his beloved trike. Redecorated for each holiday or parade, Wooly Bully was an icon in the community bringing joy and laughter to kids and adults alike. Jay, Aka Beadman due to the beads he wore in his beard, loved creating beaded gifts to share with both friends and strangers. Jay was born April 16,1938 in Washington DC. He graduated from Suitland High School in 1957 and went on to enlist in the United States Navy where he served as a Chief Petty Officer, Data Processing Technician for 26 years. While in the Navy he served in various duty stations including two tours in Saigon, Vietnam. Jay retired at NAS Pensacola in 1985. During his military service he received many commendations including: Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal; National Defense Service Medal and Navy Commendation Medal (w/combat V). After retirement he continued to serve his country working for the United States Post Office for 11 years. Jay was a member of Vietnam Veterans of NW Florida, Abate of Florida, Gulf Coast Patriot Guard, American Legion, Pensacola Coin Club, NRA since 1963, VFW, Brothers of the Third Wheel and many others. He was also a member of AA for over 48 years where he was well loved and helped change the lives of many. In 1960, while stationed at NSA New Orleans, Jay met the love of his life, Rose. Jay met Rose, a WAVE, at a military function they were both attending with other dates. During the night Jay asked Rose to leave her date and go with him and she accepted. They were married soon after. He is preceded in death by his father, Lewis D. Irby Sr., mother, Margaret Heaton, sister, Kay Madigan and her daughter Grace, granddaughter Jessica Rose and his beloved pets. He will be remembered and missed by his wife and best friend of 60 years, Rosemarette Irby, children, Marette Trimble (Paul), Lewis Irby and Lois Strahan (Tre Orgeron), granddaughter Sasha Irby, grandsons Paul Michael Trimble (Jennifer), Dane Ward (Sarah), Matthew Trimble, Seth Minton (Brittany) and Drew Minton (Tenille). Great-grandchildren Cayna, Braelyn, Kessa, Ryley, Brynlee, Jacob, Gracie, Nolan, Keira, David, Shiloh and Maddie. Sisters Margaret Taylor (James), Faith Salter (Jerry), brother Leon Irby (Marianne) and many nieces and nephews. A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, February 22, 2021, at Faith Chapel Funeral Home South. Chaplain Ken Griffin will be officiating. Interment will be at Barrancas National Cemetery, NAS Pensacola, FL. FAITH CHAPEL FUNERAL HOME SOUTH, 100 Beverly Parkway, Pensacola, is entrusted with arrangements. You may express condolences online at www.fcfhs.com.

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Lewis "Jay" Irby, Jr.

April 16, 1938 - February 11, 2021