Jay Keith Beauvais

Jay Keith Beauvais, 95, of Rockford, IL, passed away on January 25, 2025. Jay was born in Rockford, IL on September 23, 1929, to Harvey and Grace (Darling) Beauvais. He attended Rockford Schools, including St. James Catholic School and St. Thomas High School. Enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1946. Served in the Reserves from 1948–1950, and was called to serve in the Korean War in 1950. He was then sent to Thailand where he served as an Embassy Guard. Jay was Honorably discharged in 1951.

Jay married Barbara Jane Rance on June 25, 1953, in Paducah, KY. He retired from Nicor Gas in 1985, then worked for Gilley’s Sheet Metal for 12 years. He was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church for years, and was their first lay athletic director at the school. Jay was instrumental in establishing a girl’s athletic program. He served on the school board and coached Little League baseball.

Survived by his children, Jennifer (Jerald) Amenda, William (Ramona) Beauvais, Patricia Gasmund and Ann (Dan) Osmera; ten grandchildren; several great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by his parents; one brother; three sisters; grandchild, Austin Roberts; son-in-law, Bradley Gasmund.

No services are planned at this time. He will be buried at a later date in Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Memorials may be made to The Disabled American Veterans, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH or to St. James Catholic Church.

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