MSG, U.S. Army (Retired) Jay Timothy Sexton

MSG, U.S. Army (Retired) Jay Timothy Sexton, a devoted soldier, mentor, and family man, passed away on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at the age of 66. Born on Tuesday, December 22, 1959, Jay lived a life defined by service, sacrifice, and unwavering love for his family and country.

A longtime resident of Pembroke, Georgia, and raised in McCalla, Alabama, Jay proudly served in the United States Army from October 11, 1983, to June 30, 2004, retiring honorably as a Master Sergeant after more than 20 years of dedicated service. Throughout his military career, Jay served in multiple highly specialized and critical roles, beginning with three years as a BFVS Turret Mechanic, followed by nine years as a Terrain Analyst, and concluding with nearly 6 years as a Topographic Analyst.

During his service, Jay deployed in support of multiple combat operations, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. He led and served alongside some of the United States Army’s finest soldiers, earning numerous honors for his bravery and dedication, including the Bronze Star Medal and the Purple Heart. Jay deeply loved serving his country and carried immense pride in his role as a soldier and leader.

Even after retiring from active duty, Jay’s commitment to service never wavered. He continued to support the military as a Department of Defense civilian, once again deploying alongside soldiers and remaining steadfast in his mission to serve those in uniform.

Jay also exemplified a lifelong commitment to education and personal growth. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Summa Cum Laude, from Colorado Technical University, followed by a Master of Science in Information Technology from Southern New Hampshire University, where he was recognized as a Distinguished Scholar, Gamma Nu Chapter.

While Jay was immensely proud of his military career, his greatest pride and joy was his family. He was a devoted father and grandfather who loved his family deeply and unconditionally. He is survived by his three children: Cammera Villagran and her husband Jonathan of Bremerton, Washington; Christina Sexton of Foley, Alabama; and Katie Sexton of Foley, Alabama. His legacy continues through his five beloved grandchildren: Raymond, Ryean, Radley, John, and Matthew, each of whom brought him immeasurable joy.

Jay is also survived by his siblings: his brothers Bobby Sexton, and Michael Sexton and his wife Sherri; and his sisters Cynthia Sexton; Kendra Slagle and her husband Harry; and Heather Speegle and her husband Rodney. He is fondly remembered by his six nieces Amber, Elise, Kimberly, Ashtyn, Sarah, and Lauren and his three nephews Bobby Jr., Skyler, and Logan.

He is reunited in eternal rest with those who preceded him in death: his grandparents JT and Della Lansdell; his mother Shirley A. Lansdall Sexton; his father Kenneth Ray Sexton and his wife Patsy Floyd Sexton; his brother Kendell Sexton, Sr.; his nephew Kendell Sexton, Jr.; and his grandson Paul Sexton.

A graveside service with Full Military Honors will be held at Jefferson Memorial Gardens South, 2701 John Hawkins Parkway, Hoover, AL on Monday, February 2, 2026 at 10:00 am.