Jay W. Huffman

Jay W. Huffman, age 80, of New Philadelphia, died Saturday, August 1, 2015 while in the care of Community Hospice House, following a period of declining health.

A son of the late Wilbur and Cecile (Sapp) Huffman, Jay was born at Holbrook, Pennsylvania on September 7, 1934.

Following his graduation from Waynesburg Central High School in Pennsylvania, Jay went on to obtain a degree in Civil Engineering from West Virginia University. From 1957-1959, he faithfully served his country as a member of the United States Navy.

Jay put his degree as a Civil Engineer to work as he served the Ohio Department of Transportation for 34 years, retiring in 1993. He enjoyed swimming at the Tuscarawas County YMCA every day for 42 years and spent many summer months through the years touring Atwood Lake on his sailboat. Jay was also an avid gardener having been known for his beautiful Dahlias.

His other hobbies included following the Pittsburgh Pirates and Steelers and WVU football and basketball. To his grandchildren, he was known as the man who could build anything. Above all, he was a man of few words and great intellect; when Jay spoke, everyone listened as they knew his infamous wit, sarcasm and one-liners were sure to be shared.

He is survived by his wife, of 53 years, the former Elizabeth “Betty” Riker, whom he married on September 23, 1961; their children, Dr. Lisa (Kris) Hansel of Columbus, Jennifer (Bill) Pasenelli of Silver Spring, Maryland, and Michael (Kayo) Huffman of Portland, Oregon, and three grandchildren, Jay Pasenelli, Lucy Pasenelli, and Malena Huffman.

In addition to his parents, Jay was preceded in death by his sister, Coral Cervelli

Father Jeff Coning will lead a service celebrating Jay’s life on Wednesday, August 5, 2015 at 11 AM in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia where the family will greet guests one hour prior to the service from 10-11 AM. Following the service, all are invited to share in a meal and fellowship in the Geib Family Center. Cremation will follow the service with burial to take place in the Calvary Cemetery at New Philadelphia at a later date.

Memorial contributions in Jay’s memory may be directed to Community Hospice, 716 Commercial Avenue SW, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663 or to Sacred Heart Church 139 Third Street NE, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663.