John "Jay" R. Crown IV

Born on April 30, 1971, in Fort Polk, Louisiana, Jay spent most of his high school years in Hickory, North Carolina, where he met his future wife, Susan. They later graduated from the University of South Carolina and remained devoted Gamecock fans throughout their lives.

A lifelong foodie, Jay’s passion for food shaped both his personal and professional life—from waiting tables and bartending in college, to cooking at home, to exploring restaurants across the country and abroad. He hosted a favorite shrimp boil at the annual family beach trip to Sunset Beach, NC every July 4th. Jay built his career in the food industry with Heinz, Rich Products Corporation, Unilever, and ultimately T. Marzetti Company in Columbus, Ohio.

Jay’s humor was one of his most unforgettable qualities. Witty, quick, and effortlessly funny, he had a gift for making people laugh and bringing joy to every gathering. He also loved traveling and attending live music events.

More than anything, Jay loved his family. Susan and Jack were his greatest source of pride and joy, and he treasured the time they spent together. He also made a point to create meaningful relationships with his extended family, friends and colleagues.

Jay is survived by his loving wife, Susan Crown of Westerville, Ohio; his son, Jack Crown of Cincinnati, Ohio; his parents, Leigh and John Crown of Morehead City, North Carolina; his brother and sister-in-law, Clark and Naomi Crown of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and their children, Tillie and Zachary; his sister and brother-in-law, Sarah and Nini Benbouzid of Charlotte, North Carolina, and their children, Bia and Mariam; along with many beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

During his courageous battle with cancer, Jay showed his family and friends what it means to face life’s hardest moments with strength, faith, courage, and love.

Jay will be remembered for his warmth, humor, adventurous spirit, and the joy he brought to everyone who knew him.

A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, May 11, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Schoedinger Funeral & Cremation Service, 6699 North High Street, Worthington, Ohio 43085. Visitation will follow at the funeral home from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute at Ohio State University.