Jay was an incredible Dad to Megan, Nick & Jared and spent over 25 years with his beloved wife, Karen. Along with his Mom, Dianne, siblings, Chris & Lori, as well as Paul, Matt, Jeff, Madison & all those who knew and loved him, we miss Jay terribly every day. A piece of our souls died that day with him.
This page is for all those who loved, respected & knew Jay Harper and for all those who support our fight for Justice for Jay. Jay Harper was an amazing man, full of life, compassionate, extremely funny, kind, giving, and deeply loved & respected. Jay's life was tragically taken from us on Oct. 17,2012 while on a business trip to Coverall's home base in Deerfield Beach, Florida. So far his case is unsolved and as each day goes by, those who love him are more determined to fight for answers, to be Jay's voice and never let go of the hope & faith that justice for Jay will happen!
Jay E. Harper, 47, of Southbury, died unexpectedly on Wed. Oct. 17, 2012 in Florida. He was the husband of Karen (Mercier) Harper.
Jay was born March 25, 1965, in Ware, MA, son of Dianne (Messier) Harper and the late Allan Harper. He grew up in East Brookfield, MA with his sister, Lori, and brother, Chris. He graduated from David Prouty Regional High School in Spencer in 1983 where he was quarterback of the football team that went to the Super Bowl during their senior year.
Jay graduated from WPI in 1987 with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. He and Karen were married in 1988 and lived in numerous places, including Kansas, New Jersey and moved to Southbury, CT in 2006. Together they raised three amazing children, Megan, Nickolas and Jared.
He enjoyed attending his children’s sporting events, and was committed to volunteering with town youth sports. He was able to teach a large amount of the younger population, while coaching his children in soccer and basketball. He was a board member of recreational basketball and started the Little Swishers program for kids in first and second grade.
Jay was an avid Boston sports fan particularly the Patriots. He loved working in his yard, spending time with his family, pets and friends, and family vacations, especially in past years to Old Orchard Beach.
March 25, 1965 - October 17, 2012