Jeffrey F. Lay, 58, of Athens, passed away Thursday, February 26, 2015, at his home.

He was a lifelong resident of McMinn County and was preceded in death by his father, Frank Lay and a granddaughter, Amber McDonald. He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church.

He was employed at Jim Bob Contracting as an Electrician for the past 15 years. He enjoyed golfing, listening to music, playing guitar and spending time with those he loved. He was a beloved husband, devoted step-father, loyal brother and loving son.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 24 years, Amy Walker McDonald Lay of Athens; children, Travis McDonald of Corbin, KY and Adam McDonald of Athens; mother, Mary Nell Snyder Lay of Athens; sisters and brothers-in-law, Debbie and Dan Martin of Cape Coral, FL and Terri and Lynn Beam of Savannah, GA; brother-in-law and his wife, Randy and Martha Walker of Athens; special nieces and nephews, Samantha Walker, Rachel Walker, Nathan Beam, Brackton Pratt and Ashley Lehwald; a special aunt, Carol Ann Snyder Seals; special cousins, Carla Lay Miller, Kathy and Wayne Land, and Rick Lay.

A memorial service will be conducted, 11:30 am, Tuesday, March 3, 2015 in the chapel of Smith Funeral Home with Rev. Johnny Raper officiating. Interment will be at a later date. The family will receive friends for 1 hour following the service.

The family suggests memorials be made to St. Jude Childrens Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, ATTN: Memorial Dept.; or Disabled American Veterans Organization @www.dav.org.