Jay William Porteous, aged 53, was born on June 28, 1968, in Santa Clara County, California.

He was raised in Michigan and eventually established his family in Lakeport, California.

Jay graduated from Thornapple-Kellogg High School in 1986, prior to attending Michigan State University.

Jay would go on to begin his career as a merchant mariner, a job he enjoyed for over three decades.

Although he cheated death on numerous occasions, Jay ultimately passed away on Feb. 25, 2022, in Woodland, California.

Jay is preceded in death by his parents, Patricia (Stager) Porteous and William Porteous; and sister, Lisa Porteous.

He leaves behind sisters, Lori (Crews) and Jennifer (Reynolds); fiancé, Julianna (Bisaccio); and daughter, Annabelle.

Jay lived a blessed life with many great adventures, and in turn many great stories. He had a brilliant, contagious smile which brightened the world. He often shared the warmest all-encompassing hugs.

Jay was generous with his time and energy. Jay touched countless lives all over the world. There is an empty space where his smile and voice once were.

Jay was loved and leaves behind memories of a too-short life well-led.

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held Saturday, April 23, in Middleville, Michigan.

Please visit  https://goresfuneralservice.com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Jay’s family.