Jasper 'Jay' Elder

Mr. Jasper "Jay" Elder, 80, of Blytheville passed from this life Wednesday, June 26, 2013, at his home.

Born in Neelyville, Mo., to Ernest and Bessie Cornelia Campbell Elder, he was a veteran of the U.S. Navy, having served in the Korean and Vietnam Wars as Chief Petty Officer. He retired from Nibco as a purchasing manager and was a longtime member of the Lone Oak Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon.

Jay loved to read, especially the Bible. He enjoyed playing with his dog, Pepper, who was great company to him. He could connect with both young and old and he never met a stranger.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Imogene Beggs Elder; a brother, Fred Elder; and an infant brother.

Jay is survived by his sons, Ricky Elder and his wife, Reba, of Blytheville, and Guy Elder of Gosnell;

A grandson, Justin Elder;

His sister, Ruth Main of Bald Knob; and

Step-grandchildren Jeffrey Walmsley and Breanne Redding.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday in Cobb Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Mitchell King officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:30-7:30 p.m. today at the funeral home. An online register may be signed at cobbfuneralhome.com