Jay Scott Newkirk

Jay Scott Newkirk passed away on Thursday, April 2nd, 2026. He was born on December 12, 1967 (his mother’s birthday as well), to Tilman and Joy (Sibley) Newkirk in Amarillo, Texas where he spent his childhood.

After completing his high school education, the family moved to Topeka, Kansas. Jay attended Washburn University and Wichita State while working as a waiter. Jay decided that food service was the vocation he would follow, and rose from waiter to assistant manager to manager in the Carlos O’Kelly’s restaurant chain. He worked in Emporia, Lawrence, and Topeka for over 20 years. When the store in Topeka closed, he sought other positions but decided he no longer wanted to manage; and became an employee at the Classic Bean Coffee Shop where he worked for many years until his death.

Jay was married to Darla Stamper and became a parent to Madison and Fletcher. The marriage ended in divorce after several years and the couple shared parental duties. Jay enjoyed many special times and fun adventures with his children, including trips to Branson and going on a Caribbean Cruise.

Jay also enjoyed biking and tennis, as well as gaming- which started with Dungeons and Dragons, an activity he shared with his children. He also loved dogs and had many throughout his life, most of them being rescues. Jay became a grandfather and had the pleasure of getting to know Fletcher and Adriana’s children, Oliver (age 2), and Presley (age 1).

Jay is survived by his mother, Joy Newkirk, daughter, Madison (Toby) Matzek, son, Fletcher Zerger (Adriana), grandchildren, Oliver and Presley, and brother, Colin Andrew Newkirk. He was preceded in death by his father, Tilman Newkirk.

A celebration of life will be held at a date and place yet to be determined. Jay gave the gift of giving sight to others through the program Saving Sight, who called and confirmed it was successful.

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