John Dayton

John J. "Jay" Dayton, 87, of Holland, Ohio, passed peacefully on August 26 at Lakes of Sylvania, surrounded by family. Born on August 15, 1938, in S. Troy, NY, to the late John J., Sr. and Elizabeth "Bette" (Devery) Dayton, Jay attended Sacred Heart School and LaSalle Institute in Troy before embarking on an adventure-filled four years at the University of Miami in Florida.

Upon returning to Troy, Jay started his lifelong career in sales at W.H. Bumstead Chevrolet dealership alongside his father. He later shifted to the swimming pool business, first at Pacific Pools in Latham, NY, and then to P.I. in eastern Tennessee, where he was National Sales Manager. 

Jay was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hiking, fishing, and hunting with his faithful English Setters. An avid reader, he also enjoyed jazz and classic rock, gourmet food, and gardening. He was happiest when spending time with family, especially his grandchildren.

Jay is survived by his wife of 62 years, Bonita J.(Inglis), children Susan E. Dayton (Deb Williams) of East Greenbush, NY; Stephen J. Dayton, of Wynantskill, NY; Shawn M. Dayton (Tracie Nelson) of Holland, OH; Gregory W. Dayton, of W. Richland, WA; and grandchildren Benjamin N. Dayton (Kirsten Bergman) of Toledo OH; Andrew J. Dayton of Columbus, OH; Caroline E. Dayton, of Holland, OH; Kameron E. Dayton of W. Richland, WA; and step-granddaughter Kyra Andress of WA.

Funeral service will be held Saturday, August 30, 2025, at 10 a.m. in St. Joan of Arc Church. Jay will be interred in St. Jean Baptiste Cemetery, Troy, NY. Urbanski Funeral Home a Life Celebration Home, 5055 Secor Rd. Toledo, Ohio is assisting the family.