Donald R. Lay

Don Lay, 80, passed away on September 20, 2023.  He was born on May 8, 1943, in Knoxville, Tennessee to the late Edgar and Birdie Lay.

Don was a foodie who enjoyed cooking from the heart. He cooked his way through his time spent in the army and into the hearts of anyone who shared one of his dishes. An avid Gardener who enjoyed bringing vegetables from seedling to crop, then to the table. In the warm weather months, you’d find him outside from dawn till dusk tending to the garden and flower beds

Don was a loving husband and devoted father. He and his wife, Geri shared an unbreakable bond and love. The two were inseparable and enjoyed spending time outdoors, traveling together, or gathering with family. He had a unique relationship with each of his children and grandchildren who will cherish the memories made with him.  

Besides his parents, Don was preceded in death by his son, Brian; brother, Eddie Lay and sisters, Louise Phillips, Phyllis Shultz, and Rachel Halcomb.  He is survived by his wife of  22 years, Geri; daughters, Carla (Scott) Data and Stacey (Bob) Hogenmiller; stepson, Chris (Tiffany Santacroce) Holder; 13 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild and one due in October; 2 sisters Wilhelmina Gwyn and Lind Measell as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.

A funeral service will be held at 5 P.M. on Tuesday, September 26, 2023, at Schermesser Funeral Home, 600 E. Turkeyfoot Lake Road, Akron, Ohio 44319 with Fr. Jared Orndorff officiating.  Family and friends may call on Tuesday from 3 P.M. until the time of the service at the funeral home.  Inurnment will take place at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery at a later date. To leave a special message for the family, visit our website at www.schermesserfh.com.

SCHERMESSER
(330) 899-9107
www.schermesserfh.com

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