Obituary of Casey M. Jay

Casey Margaret Jay, beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, daughter-in-law, sister-in-law, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2024, at the age of 35, surrounded by the love of her family and friends.

Born on March 15, 1989, in LaGrange, Illinois, to Thomas and Carol Harris, Casey grew up in Plainfield, Illinois, with her sister Taylor. After graduating from Plainfield Central High School in 2007, she attended the University of Iowa, where she made lifelong friendships and met her future husband, Joseph Jay.

At age 16, Casey was diagnosed with kidney disease, which led to a transplant in 2010. In an incredible act of love, her mother Carol donated one of her kidneys, forming a bond that went beyond words. This gift gave Casey a second chance at life, and she returned to the University of Iowa with renewed strength.

While at the University of Iowa, Casey met Joe in a Business Communication class. After some persistence on Joe’s part, their love story blossomed, beginning with a snowy evening at The Vine in Iowa City.

Casey’s professional journey began while she was still in college, interning at TransAmerica/Aegon, a company she would later return to. After graduating, she transitioned to a full-time role before relocating to St. Louis, where she continued her career at Reinsurance Group of America. Joe and Casey loved exploring St. Louis and even married there in 2016.

Despite their time in St. Louis, Iowa City always felt like home. Casey and Joe eventually moved back to Iowa City, where she rejoined TransAmerica/Aegon and worked there until the summer of 2023. During this time, Casey and Joe moved into their forever home and dedicated their lives to their Iowa City community of family, friends and Joe’s business. Casey was Joe’s greatest supporter.

In 2018, Casey and Joe welcomed their greatest joy—Annabelle Blue Jay. Born prematurely due to Casey’s high-risk pregnancy, Annabelle spent 90 days in the NICU before coming home to her loving parents. Casey dedicated her life to making Annie happy, attending school events, and playing endless hours of pretend games.

One of Casey’s proudest moments came in 2020 when she graduated from the University of Iowa with a Master’s in Business Administration. Having Annie present at her graduation meant the world to her.

In late January 2024, Casey was diagnosed with lymphoma. For seven months, she faced cancer with remarkable strength and resilience, undergoing multiple treatments while continuing to focus on others. Her selflessness and grace were evident throughout her battle, as she continued to show up for Annie’s activities, never letting cancer define her final months.

In addition to her love for family, Casey found joy in simple pleasures—spending time with their

newest dog Bluey, her family, and friends. She was especially fond of her book club, where she connected with others over a shared love of reading and conversation.

Casey is survived by her loving husband Joe, her cherished daughter Annabelle, her parents Thomas and Carol Harris, her sister Taylor Brooks and her husband Kyle, and their children Ben and Harlow. She is also deeply missed by Joe’s parents, Mike and Renea, and his brothers, Sam (wife Catherine, and their daughters Iris, Odette, and Theodora) and Jon. Her remarkable spirit, unwavering strength, and boundless love will forever be treasured by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, September 29, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Walker Homestead Farm & Winery in Iowa City. Memorial contributions may be made to the Jay family and will be directed to Preucil Preschool, a place dear to both Annie and her cousins, Ben and Harlow.