Jay Byron Denker, age 64 of Warrensburg, Missouri, passed away on January 14, 2025, after a hard-fought battle with cancer.

Born on August 28, 1960, in Rapid City, South Dakota, to Roger and Connie Denker. His family moved to Warrensburg, Missouri, where Jay grew up and became an integral part of the community. From a young age, Jay was active in scouting and proudly achieved the rank of Eagle Scout with Troop 513. His deep commitment to service and leadership was evident throughout his life.

During high school, Jay made history as Warrensburg High School's first state wrestling champion. After his wrestling career, Jay devoted more than 20 years to the sport, both as a coach and as the director of the Missouri Youth Wrestling Tournament. His coaching extended beyond wrestling to football, where he continued to mentor and teach young athletes the importance of integrity, hard work, character, and resilience.

Jay served in the Missouri National Guard, further strengthening his lifelong commitment to service and community. He was also an active member of Phi Sigma Epsilon, a fraternity that helped shape his core values of leadership, dedication, and service to others. Whether through his military service, fraternity involvement, or coaching, Jay's life was built on the principles of giving back and supporting those around him.

Jay had a great love for the Black Hills of South Dakota, where he was born. Those memories of the Black Hills remained close to his heart throughout his life.

Jay was also an avid lover of teaching, woodworking, gardening, cooking, and barbecuing. He had a natural talent for creating with his hands, whether in the workshop, the garden, or the kitchen. His family and friends will always cherish the meals and memories he made with his care and skill.

But above all, Jay's greatest love was his family. On July 18, 1982, he married the love of his life, Val Lene Barnes, and together they raised two sons, Dane and Kye, and a daughter, Shae Lene. Jay was a proud father who devoted himself to supporting his children in every way. Whether on the soccer or baseball field, in the classroom, or at home, he was always there to guide, encourage, and push them to be their best.

Jay is survived by his wife, Val; sons, Dane (Ashley) and Kye (Kate); his sister, Shelly (Sam) Stover; his brother, Kel (Lynn) Denker; his mother, Connie Denker; and numerous nieces, nephews, and their children. He was preceded in death by his father, Roger Denker, and his daughter, Shae Lene Denker.

A celebration of Jay's life will be held on Saturday January 18, 2025 at Leeton Christian Church, 201 E Summerfield Ave, Leeton, MO 64761, with visitation starting at 10 am and the service immediately following at 11 am. Honorary pallbearers are Dane Denker, Kye Denker, Kel Denker, Chris DeMarco, Bobby Pierce, Dave Walsh, and Larry Bolton. A private burial for the family will take place at a later date.

Jay will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy of love, service, and dedication will live on forever in the hearts of his family and the many lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Leeton Christian Church, an organization that was close to Jay's heart. Donations may be made to the address below.

Leeton Christian Church

205 S. Lee Street Box 44

Leeton, Missouri 64761