East Alton—Jerry Allen "Jay" Curry, 82, passed away Friday, February 27, 2026 at his home.

Born Dec. 2, 1943 in Alton, he was a son of Kenneth Jess and Mildred Grace (Vahle) Curry.

He married Joyce Marie Hampton Aug. 22, 1969.  She survives in East Alton.

A U.S. Navy veteran, Jay was an outgoing person and never met a stranger.  He worked as a landscaper, taking care of grounds at Lewis & Clark Community College as well as several other business and homes in the area.  He was a talented musician, playing saxophone and piano for several area bands.  His main group was The DNA, and he was very proud to have won a festival competition at Scott Air Force Base with his band.  He also was an avid fisherman.

In addition to his wife of 56 years, he is survived by a daughter, Kristin Lorraine Curry of Wood River and her children, Makaylyn and Henley Morris; and her loving partner and dear friend to Jay and his family, Eric Miller.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Bob Curry, Ruth Stewart, and Marlene Buttry.

Burial will be at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, May 9 at Valhalla Memorial Park, 2308 W. Delmar Ave., Godfrey.  Jay's wish was that anyone who wants to attend is welcome.  Immediately following there will be a Celebration of Life from noon until 3 p.m. in the banquet room at Woodlands Golf Club, 2839 Harris Lane, Alton, and again, all are welcome to attend.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to all those who helped take care of Jay in his final few weeks.

Professional services entrusted to paynic Home for Funerals, with an online guestbook available at www.paynicfh.com