Jay Randall Nelson

March 8, 1947 – February 11, 2025

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Jay R. Nelson, of Citrus Heights, on

Tuesday, February 11th, at the age of 77 years and 11 months.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 44 years, Elaine, Father-in-law: Jim Forsberg, Sister-in-law: Patty Forsberg (Joe Walsh), as well as numerous relatives.

He will also be dearly missed by his many friends including: Craig and Cathy Lamar, Mike and Kim Dougherty, Ray and Glenda Enos, Murray Weaver, Savio, the child we never had and his family The Nanoo’s, and Jay’s beloved cat, Casper.

Jay was preceded in death by: his parents William and Peggy Nelson, Mother-in-law: Mary Forsberg and Brother-in-law: Jim Forsberg

Jay was born in Hollywood, California. He was the sole child of Bill and Peggy. His father was a US Army Major. Jay lived in Sacramento, Guam, Japan, Seattle, Asbury Park, NJ and Alaska before returning to this area to live the rest of his amazing life.

His childhood travels surely began his lifelong love of visiting and experiencing other places and cultures.

He graduated from Hiram W. Johnson Senior High School in 1964 then achieved his degree of Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Sacramento State College in 1969. It was there he met his lifelong friend, Mike Dougherty.

Jay was a member of the California National Guard along with his dear friend Ron Keever.

In 1968 he got his first restaurant job at Chuck’s Steak House of Hawaii in Sacramento.

From there, he was having too much fun in the hospitality world where he forged many more lifelong friendships. He met his dear friend and business partner Craig Lamar in 1969. They turned the Slocum home into the enchanting Slocum House Restaurant in Fair Oaks. A few years later they opened C Jay’s in Sacramento.

In 1981 Jay met Elaine at their apartment complex swimming pool. Their mutual friend planned a get together at The Red Robin that evening. When they arrived, it was only the two of them, she had set them up.

Jay spent his last working years cruising the Mexican Riviera working on Ken Hunt’s yacht and tending bar at The Buggy Whip.

Jay was Elaine’s tour guide to the world for the many trips taken during their wonderful years together. He loved to travel until he fell in love with his cat Casper and wanted to stay home for him.

Jay was an amazing husband and friend. His incredible mind, sense of integrity and quick-wittedness will be remembered. He was loved and will be missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. His smiling face and twinkling eyes lit up the room.

Special thanks to Melody, Linda and Savio and the team from Kaiser Home Health: Nicki, Nedi, Susan, Danielle and Whitney. Jay sincerely appreciated your TLC and expertise during the most difficult time in our lives.