Jay C. Beckley

Jay C. Beckley, 91, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Thursday, July 18, 2019. Born April 6, 1928 in Blanchard, Iowa, he was a son of the late Jesse Fay and Evelyn (Russell) Beckley. A graduate of Ames High School, Jay also graduated from Iowa State University where he was a member of the Tau Sigma Chapter of Beta Theta Pi Fraternity, and later Cumberland School of Law. Jay enlisted into the United States Army, on November 19, 1951 and proudly served on active duty status in the Counterintelligence Corps, until 1953. On March 13, 1953, he transferred to the United States Army Reserves and continued to serve during the Korean War Conflict, until August 29, 1956. Jay was Vice President at Harris Bank in Chicago, Corporate Lawyer and Senior Vice President at USLIFE Credit Corporation, and President and Chairman of the Board at Oswego Bank. He was also a member of Peace Lutheran Church in Edmond, Oklahoma. In 1960, he ran as a Democrat for the office of State Treasurer for the State of Iowa. Jay has proudly met both President Truman and President J.F.K. Jay married Margaret L. Hullinger; they had two sons, William “Bill” L. Beckley and Bartley Beckley. After the passing of his wife, he married Bernice H. Callen. Bill and his wife, Dana E. Bull-Beckley live in Rockton, Illinois and his stepson, Gregory L. Callen resides in South Bend, Indiana. Jay is survived by his loving wife, Bernice and his sons. His siblings include Russell (Dorothy) Beckley, Patty (Franklin) Rusch, and Willa Curta, who are still living. He was preceded in death by two siblings, Larry and Marilyn. A private Communion Service was held for the family. No public services are scheduled at this time. For online condolences, please visit www.advantagefunerals.com.