COLUMBUS
James Edward Nay, 75, of Shoreline Dr., Columbus, IN, died unexpectedly Sunday December 26th, 2021, while making his yard look like a park (something he was famous for).
He was born in Columbus, Indiana, September 21, 1946, the son of John H. and Dorothy E. (King) Nay. He attended grade school at McKinley School, graduated in 1964 from Columbus Senior High School, and received a Bachelor of Science degree from Indiana State University in 1971.
He retired in June of 2011 from Household Essentials, LLC of Hazelwood, MO as Vice President of Sales with 12 years of service. He held various sales and marketing positions with Camp Industries, Cosco, Arvin Industries, Seymour Housewares, and Fiskars/Royal Floor Mats in his 36 year sales career.
He was known neighborhood wide for his love of landscaping and lawn care. So much so, he mowed many neighbors’ yards and cared for their properties following his retirement. He also was a caretaker of family and friends that were like family. He found enjoyment in running errands for those who could not. He took pride in bargain shopping and finding the best deal. When he found a good deal, he bought in bulk, which could have attributed to the toilet paper shortage of 2020.
To his friends and family he was known as Jim, Dad, Grandpa Jim or the other Grandpa Nay. His children, grandchildren and great grandchildren kept him busy and always made him beam with pride. He had amazing organizational skills, a wonderful sense of humor and nonstop energy.
Jim attended and was a founding member of Westside Community Church where he served as Treasurer for several years.
He was married to Linda K. Williams on January 5, 1974. Those left to wonder who will organize everything and take care of everyone include his wife Linda, son Chad (Ann) Nay of Carmel, IN and his daughter Alison (Jeramie) Vandergriff of Columbus, grandchildren, Andrew Barker of Taylorsville, Louie Vandergriff and Leigh Vandergriff of Columbus, and brothers William H. Nay (Nancy) and David R. Nay of Columbus. As well as many nieces, nephews and great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his grandson, Charlie David Vandergriff and his brother John R. Nay.
Memorial contributions can be made to Westside Community Church, Riley Hospital for Children in memory of his grandson Charlie David Vandergriff, or the charity of the donor’s choice.
A celebration of life is planned for a later date, when the lawn can be mowed and made to look like a park again, the lake is sparkling and the fish are biting.
The Jewell – Rittman Family Funeral Home is handling arrangements.
