Dennis Allen Jay, 79, formerly of Grand Island and Hasting, passed away Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at the Central Nebraska Veterans Home in Kearney, Nebraska.

He was born to Lester and Lois (Weir) Jay on April 14, 1946. He grew up in Colo, Iowa, and graduated from Colo High School in 1964.

He entered the United States Air Force on January 5, 1965. He served during the Vietnam War. He retired from the Air Force on April 1, 1989, serving 23 years, 10 months. He retired as a Senior Master Sergeant. He was stationed at various bases, including Altus, OK, South Korea, England, Alaska, and retired while stationed at Grand Forks AFB in North Dakota. He received numerous medals, ribbons, and decorations for his service.

Dennis is survived by his daughters, Kim (Steve) Ullmann of Panama City, FL, Dawn (Dennis) Defoe of Cloquet, MN, Carlie (Lance) Kwiatkowski of Kearney, NE, Chelsie Jay of Grand Island, NE, and Camie Jay of Bennington, NE; one son, Cody Jay of Grand Island, NE; two sisters, Dorothy (Fred) Cerka of Colo, IA, Donna (John) Cerka of Marshalltown, IA; eight granddaughters; three great-granddaughters; one great-grandson; as well as many nieces, nephews, and their families.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and one young daughter, Tina Jay.

Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 21, 2026, at the Colo Cemetery in Colo. A reception will follow the service at the Colo United Methodist Church in Colo.

Memorials are kindly suggested to the family.

Rasmusson-Ryan Funeral Home in Nevada has been entrusted with his arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.rasmussonfh.com.