Jeffrey John Stay's Obituary
On Monday, December 12, 2022, Jeffrey John Stay, loving husband, son, brother, fur-daddy,
and proud Minnesotan, passed away at age fifty-five. Born and raised in Crystal, Minnesota, Jeff
was considered a “legend” at Armstrong High School, where he played sports and developed a
love of choir and theater. The cast party at the Stay home was remarkable and infamous.
A graduate at Hamline University, Jeff majored in business and made it his mission to develop
and foster connections across the globe. As a networking guru, Jeff spent 20+ years making
relationships happen. These skills naturally transferred into his personal life, too, as Jeff was
truly “everyone’s friend”.
Jeff had a deep respect and love for the ocean, and spending time on his boat, the Stay at Sea,
gave him some of the best moments of his life. A weekend cruise on a much larger ship was
what led him to the love of his life, Jenny, with whom he shared six years of marriage and a
happy home.
Jeff was best known for his infectious laugh, great warmth, and generous spirit. He was
happiest when he had a house full of friends and family, and when a good game of Mexican
Train or Cribbage filled the room with laughs and banter. Jeff is survived by his wife, Jenny, his
parents, Bud and Bonnie, his brothers, Curt and David, nieces, nephews, cousins, his beloved
dog, Sadee, and countless friends from all over the world. A celebration of life will be held on
Sunday, December 18, 2022, from 2pm- 5pm at Van Orsdel Funeral Home located at 11220 N.
Kendall Drive in Miami. A memorial service will take place in the Spring 2023 in his hometown of
Crystal. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that those who are able instead make a donation to
Jeff and Jenny’s non profit, STAYGENEROUS.
https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=JLAYQKWAK6T8L
What’s your fondest memory of Jeffrey?
What’s a lesson you learned from Jeffrey?
Share a story where Jeffrey's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Jeffrey you’ll never forget.
How did Jeffrey make you smile?