Remembering Larry Jay

During my years of coaching football at St. John Fisher University, I had the opportunity to work with many great young men. One of the goals of our program has always been to help shape our players into good husbands, fathers, and active members of their communities. Every once in a while, a player comes along who leaves a lasting impression on you — not just as an athlete, but as a person. Larry Jay was one of those individuals.

He was the kind of young man you knew was going to make a difference wherever life took him. After graduating, Larry headed out west and started his 20-year-long career in the U.S. Border Patrol. Even with the distance, I never lost touch with him. He would call to check in and share what was going on in his life, and I always appreciated hearing from him.

When Larry eventually returned home, it meant a great deal to me that he reached out and offered to help with Camp Good Days, which he knew was so near and dear to me. He stepped up as a volunteer and even helped start a golf tournament with members of the Border Patrol to raise much-needed funds to support our mission. It spoke volumes about who Larry was — someone who never forgot the people and places that mattered to him.

Learning that Larry was facing a serious battle with cancer was incredibly difficult, especially knowing how private, strong, and healthy he had always been. Throughout it all, he carried himself with quiet strength and grace. Even during the most challenging moments, Larry never allowed what he was facing to define him. He met each day with courage and dignity, and that is how I will always remember him.

I’ve spent a lot of time reflecting on what I’ve learned from Larry. Some people enter your life and leave it better simply by being who they are, and Larry was one of those rare individuals. I was proud to have been his coach and friend, and I truly believe the world is a better place because he was in it. He was a devoted father and husband, and my heart goes out to his family and loved ones. His passing was deeply felt, and he will be missed by so many who had the privilege of knowing him.

Larry’s memory will live on — not only in the hearts of those who loved him, but in the countless lives he touched along the way. I like to think that he and my daughter Teddi are together in heaven, sharing stories with each other. Our memories of Larry and the impact he made will remain unchanged and cherished forever.