Joseph "Jae" A. DeGroat

Joseph "Jae" A. DeGroat, age 44, of Wurtsboro, New York passed away on Friday, February 16, 2024. Jae was born in Goshen, New York, to Charlene DeGroat Mann. Jae was mostly known for making you laugh, even when you really didn't want to. He had such an infectious laughter and was always quick with a joke.

Jae was moved around as a child and young teen, but spent most of his lifetime in Washingtonville, NY. He is probably most remembered as being the kid that everyone wanted to be around. Anytime his name was mentioned, there was always a funny story to follow, about something he did. He had a story for every occasion.

His mom, Charlene says that he was always performing. At the age of 6, Jae received a Dukes of Hazard guitar, which was his first guitar. He would perform for everyone, whenever they had company over. He would sing and play. Once he was done, he would even bow. He loved all types of music, but he especially loved Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughan. They were the artists who inspired him, to teach himself how to play guitar.

His brother, Bryan, who he lovingly referred to as, Bruth, was most important to him growing up. As long as he had him, he didn't need anyone else. They grew up to be the best of friends. They were inseparable. Jae would always say, if my brother can do it, so can I. He was a true big brother and always looked out for him. Their pain was each other's pain. If one of them was in trouble, the other would come help, no matter what. Bryan often talks about all of their memories together. They shared a love for Wrestling and even went to a live showing with a program called PAL, as kids.

In 2003, Jae became a dad to his daughter, Aaliyah. He loved Aaliyah more than she will ever know. He always talked about the next pair of sneakers he was going to buy for her or had already bought her. They had such a sweet relationship. They would always horse around with each other. Every chance he got, he would give great advice about her future. His words will live with her forever.

Then in 2006, Jae met his person, who later became his Fiancé', Davona. Though they didn't legally get married, he always referred to her, as his wife. They too were always joking and playing around with each other. He would always lovingly blame her, if he couldn't find something because she was always cleaning up after him. "This girl is always moving my stuff", he would say. Davona says that they were literally best friends and soul mates.

Jae had many talents and many hobbies. He enjoyed fishing, working on cars, he was a space enthusiast, he was a very creative and artistic person, he absolutely loved to draw and give a tattoo, he was always singing and playing the guitar and he absolutely loved and adored all animals. He brought home many strays and might have even stolen a few. He had the biggest heart and if you were lucky enough to be in his circle, whatever the circumstances, he was there to help you. He was a true ride or die type of guy. Truly one of a kind.

Jae was pre-deceased by his maternal grandfather, Wilbur "Butch" DeGroat. He is survived by his daughter, Aaliyah DeGroat of Middletown, NY, his mother, Charlene DeGroat Mann of Wurtsboro, NY, his brother Bryan Clark (Suzie) of Port Jervis, NY, his Fiance', Davona Boss of Wurtsboro, NY and his maternal grandmother, Adeline DeGroat of Goshen, NY. He is also survived by his nieces, Cierra Ustic (Paul), Desiree Clark and his nephew, David Clark, all of Port Jervis, NY. As well as his great-nieces, Emilia Pelaez and Lilith Ustic and his great-nephew Luis Pelaez, all of Port Jervis, NY. He loved them all so much.

He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins and close friends.

A memorial visitation for Jae will be held Saturday, March 9, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM at David T Ferguson Funeral Home, 20 North Street, Washingtonville, NY 10992.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jae's memory may be made to the Humane Society of Port Jervis/ Deerpark, 202 Route 209, Port Jervis, New York 12771 US, www.pjhumane.org.