J.W. Leonard Kiser

J.W. (Jay) Leonard Kiser of Burlington, WA was born November 4, 1924 in Kannapolis, North Carolina, the 11th of 13 children. He graduated from Belmont High, Marion College (presently Indiana Wesleyan University), and Asbury Seminary. During his seminary days Jay was chosen to participate in the Experiment in International Living program, and spent the summer of 1948 in Germany and Austria. He often spoke of this profound experience. Jay also pastored two small Wesleyan congregations in the Old Fort, NC area.

While at Asbury, he met Ruth Holcomb, and they married in April 1950. They served together in the Cherryville Wesleyan Church in North Carolina, and in Free Methodist churches in California and Washington, including Warm Beach and Everett. Their ministry spanned over 30 years. Jay was a shepherding, nurturing pastor who often visited in the homes of those under his care.

Following Ruth's death in 1993, Jay married Martha Miller, a former classmate of Ruth's at Greenville College. They have enjoyed nearly 20 years together and have been part of the church family at Hillcrest Christian Fellowship.

Dressed in his Sunday suit, ready to leave for church, Jay was suddenly taken on up to Heaven March 9, 2014. He leaves behind his loving wife Martha, daughters Karen (Mike) and Pam, son Mark, grandchildren Kristin (Dan), Bryan (Tiffany), Cody (Alaysha), Dylan, Carly, great-grandchildren Cooper, Bentley, and Taylyn. He is also survived by his brother Clint (Wanda), sister-in-law Frances, numerous nieces and nephews, as well as Martha's children Edward, Marvel, Steve, and Judy, seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. His family will always remember and cherish his devoted love, humor, and faithful prayers.

A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at Hillcrest Christian Fellowship, 1830 S. 13th Street, Mount Vernon on March 29 at 2:00 p.m. Arrangements under the direction of Weller Funeral Home, Arlington, WA. Memorials may be made to Appalachian Children's Home, Barbourville, Kentucky (achky.org).