Rev. Jay W. Anderson

The Rev. Jay W. Anderson 87, died Monday, August 20, 2018 at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas.  He was born May 15, 1931 in New York Mills, Minnesota to John A. and Lillian (Wapola) Anderson. 

On May 30, 1953 he married Lois Anne Hayes at Albert Lea, Minnesota and she survives of the home.  They were members of the First United Methodist Church in Newton where Jay served in many capacities through the years including mission work and teaching adult Sunday School.  Jay earned his undergraduate degree from Hamline University in St. Paul, Minnesota and a Master of Divinity degree from Yale Divinity School in New Haven, Connecticut.  He was a retired United Methodist Minister serving in the Kansas West Conference.  He served churches in Wichita, Ashland, Lyons, Liberal and Pratt as well as serving as the District Superintendent in Dodge City.  Following his retirement, Jay continued his ministry serving as the long time chaplain at Newton Asbury Park.  While serving as chaplain at Asbury Park, Jay touched many lives sharing the gospel and bringing friendship to many through the years.  

He was an avid walker and looked forward to his daily walks around the neighborhood.  He also enjoyed collecting stamps and reading.  One of the greatest joys in Jay’s life was traveling.  He had the privilege of traveling the world with his wife for both fun and mission trips.  China and Kazakhstan were two especially memorable trips they took.  Jay was the proverbial people person who always took time to say hello and have a few words with those he met though the day. He also looked forward to spending time with his loving wife Lois and daughters Cathy Sullivan, Lori Stephens and Julie Murray; grandchildren Reuben and Will Sullivan; Ben Stephens and Emily Bryant; Michael and Matthew Murray; and great grandchildren Savanna and Ethan Bryant.

Memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 1, 2018 at the First United Methodist Church with The Reverend Amos McCarthy presiding.  The family will greet friends at a luncheon in the fellowship hall of the church following the service.  Private family interment will be in Greenwood Cemetery Newton, Kansas.

Memorials are suggested to First United Methodist Church in care of Petersen Funeral Home 215 North Main Newton, Kansas 67114.