Jesse "Jay" Clay Propst III

Jesse "Jay" Clay Propst III, 51, of Blue Grass, departed his earthly life Tuesday, October 3, 2023 while vacationing at Virginia Beach.

He was born July 22, 1972 in West Virginia, a son of Jesse Clay Propst II of Harrisonburg and Judy Simmons of Staunton. On September 17, 2011 he married the love of his life, Ashley Huyler Hull.

Known as “Uncle Jay” to those who knew him best, Jay was a mountain and beach loving adventure seeker, food enthusiast, and ardent animal lover. A mechanic and heavy equipment operator by trade, he had worked for Branch Highways, Inc., Plecker Construction, and most recently, Sponaugle Contracting. Jay will be remembered for his smile that was always happy to greet you and his willingness to lend a helping hand. He had a wave and hug always ready and spread a jovial spirit wherever he went. Additionally, Jay had a passion for restoring antique cars and trucks, which he shared with his son. He loved traveling to new destinations with his wife, often to concerts of their favorite bands. He truly enjoyed a good time and was known for throwing get-togethers on a moment’s notice. He would always high-five children, ask about their day, and let them crawl under a truck or on the side-by-side, earning his title “Uncle Jay”. 

Jay’s love of family was genuine and unconditional. He was truly proud of his son, Hunter, and the man he has become. The level of devotion to his wife, “Ash”, was of the highest degree. Above all, Jay will be remembered for his down-to-earth spirit, welcoming smile, bear hug, and the ray of light he spread on a daily basis.

In addition to his parents and his wife of 12 years, he is survived by his son, Hunter Clay Propst of Churchville; brother, Jerome Propst and wife, Sandra of Dayton; parents-in-law, Patrick and Treva Hull of Forks of the Water; sisters-in-law, Hannah Murray and husband, Vincent of Vanderpool and Cindy Boyd and husband, Elliott of Forks of the Water; nephews, Thomas Boyd, and Jacob and Scottie Murray; nieces, Katie Shifflet, Cheyenne Propst and Madalyn Boyd; his spoiled and beloved “fur babies,” Lilly Girl, Luke and Suzie; as well as his countless friends from near and far.

He was predeceased by his beloved grandmothers, Mary Kuykendall and Roberta Propst.

A funeral service will be held 2 p.m., Sunday, October 8, 2023 at Obaugh Funeral Home with Rev. Kathryn A. Hull officiating. Burial will follow in Blue Grass Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Pat Hull, Aaron Sponaugle, Kelly Sweet, Bill Will, Billy McDaniel, Josh Gwin, Logan Hiner, Elliott Boyd, Vincent Murray, Greg Colaw and Kyle Arnott.

The family will receive friends 6-8 p.m., Saturday, October 7 at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Highland County Humane Society, P.O. Box 458, Monterey, Va. 24465.