Obituaries

Joseph Michael Lay

Photo of Joseph Michael Lay
Joseph Michael Lay was born in the Navy Hospital, San Diego, Calif. on October 3, 1944 to Horace L. Lay and Blanche Brown Lay. He grew up in El Dorado, Ark., graduating from El Dorado High School in 1962, and Henderson State University. He is preceded in death by; his parents and wife, Nancy Bartsch Lay. Joe Mike is survived by; his wife Vibsen Lay and her daughter Michelle; son Scott Lay; stepson, Ashley Bartsch and wife Margaret and their son Austin; and daughter Alexis, brother Pat Lay and wife Sharon and their daughter Lisa Francis and son Patrick Lay. Joe Mike battled diligently through esophageal cancer over the past 18 months and fought it to the very end. He retired as an Executive with Shell Oil Company in 2003 after spending many years working throughout the South and Midwest in positions of increasing responsibility with Texaco and Shell Oil Companies. He was a fun loving father, dedicated husband, and loved by many including his family and many members of the Oaks Country Club, where he was a member and served as President twice. He loved playing golf at the Oaks and especially loved playing with his group affectionately known as "The Sunshine Boys." He was preceded in death by his wife of 29 years, Nancy, when she succumbed to cancer in 2001. He leaves his wife of 11 years, Vibsen, with a lot of fond memories as they played golf together and enjoyed traveling various places. Joe Mike loved sports and was known to be very competitive on the golf course, and was able to win many accolades and tournaments throughout his life. His friends use words like honor, integrity, courage and honesty to describe his character. He was a great leader and always gave his best effort in everything he did. Joe Mike lived a great life and will be missed by many. His doctors and Grace Hospice are greatly appreciated by Joe Mike and the family. Memorial Service will be held Thursday, February 26th at 11 a.m. at Fitzgerald Southwood Colonial Chapel, 3621 East 91st Street South. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Neighbor for Neighbor, 505 East 36th Street North, Tulsa, Okla. 74106. Fitzgerald Southwood Colonial Chapel, 918-291-3500. www.fitzgeraldsouthwoodchapel.com.

Published February 24, 2015

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