John "Jay" Joseph Mower, 69, of Millsboro, Delaware, formerly of Seaford, Delaware, and La Plata, Maryland, passed away on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Jay was born in Washington, D.C., on December 5, 1956, to William Harold Mower and Julia (Hogan) Mower. As the oldest of eleven children, he cherished his large family throughout his life. Jay retired in 2013 after 30 years of dedicated service as a painter with the federal government.

A proud 52-year member of the Sons of the American Legion, Jay was also a member of the East Sussex Moose Lodge #2542 in Roxana, Delaware. He was an avid sports fan who enjoyed watching the New York Mets and Baltimore Orioles and passionately cheered on his beloved Miami Dolphins. Jay loved working with his hands and could often be found tackling projects around the house. He also enjoyed watching westerns, listening to Irish and country music, and spending time dancing with family and friends.

Jay was preceded in death by his father, William Harold Mower.

He is survived by his loving mother, Julia (Hogan) Mower; his two sons, Kyle Mower and Glen Mower and his companion, Miranda Bowie; his four brothers, Patrick Mower, Michael Mower, Donald Mower and his wife, Monica, and Clifton Mower and his wife, Trish; and his six sisters, Kitty Burroughs and her husband, Ray, Juliana Stacey and her husband, Wayne, Mary Mower, Ursula Mower, Ivy Storm and her husband, Brian, and Rebecca Mower. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, all of whom will cherish his memory.

Jay will be remembered for his kind heart, his love of family, his hardworking spirit, and the joy he found in life's simple pleasures. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11AM on Saturday, October 3, 2026 at St. Ann Catholic Church, 691 Garfield Parkway, Bethany Beach, DE 19930, where friends and family may call after 10AM.  Following the Mass, the family warmly welcomes all to join them in continuing the celebration of Jay’s life at Delaney Hall

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Jay’s name to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963 or to the American Cancer Society by visiting American Cancer Society

Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com