In Loving Memory of Jay Edgar Scow
Jay Edgar Scow was born on December 13, 1955, in Helena, Montana, to Edgar and Betty Scow. He left us far too soon on September 16, 2024. As the third of six children, Jay grew up surrounded by a large, loving family and a close-knit circle of friends. From his father, he inherited the gift of being able to fix or rig just about anything; from his mother, he got a heart of gold, a booming laugh, and a deep love for all people. These core qualities guided him throughout his life.
Jay was active in Boy Scouts during his childhood and proudly earned the rank of Eagle Scout, where he began honing the skills that would shape his lifelong passion of helping others by building, fixing, and creating. He attended Helena High School, where he met the love of his life, Terry Haworth. Their relationship blossomed, and they were married on May 24, 1974—just a week before attending their high school graduation together as husband and wife.
Jay and Terry went on to raise three amazing children. He was “Dad” to Matt, Jamie, and Lissy. He then became “Papa” after the blessing of his eight grandchildren. In Jay’s words, those grandchildren were “the best thing that ever happened to me,” and he cherished every moment as their beloved Papa.
Jay was a man of action. He started working at Power Townsend while still in high school, and his career took him in many directions. He never really left that part-time job, continuing to work there right up until the time of his death. Helping others with home improvement projects brought him joy, and he was always eager to chat, solve problems, and lend a hand.
For eighteen years, Jay worked as a delivery driver for Meadow Gold Dairy, where he became a beloved figure to his customers and coworkers alike. After he retired from Meadow Gold, he became the general maintenance manager at the Masonic Home and started his own handyman business, “Common Sense Home Repairs”, once again sharing his passion for helping others with his wide range of skills.
Later in life, Jay began a new chapter, maintaining the Montana State Capitol Building and other buildings on and off the complex with the State of Montana’s General Services Division, where he remained until his retirement in 2021. Jay felt proud to care for the beautiful Capitol building. He reminded several governors that it was his building—they were just renters! During legislative sessions, he was one of the few people loved by everyone on both sides of the aisle. Jay’s vibrant presence filled the Capitol; you could always hear him whistling or humming a tune as he worked, bringing his positive energy and infectious smile to everyone he met.
Jay’s favorite place in the world was the cabin near Wolf Creek that he and Terry built together. For 37 years, they crafted their oasis, a true labor of love that he shared with family and friends every chance he got. To him, there was no better place than to be surrounded by loved ones in the cabin he built with his own hands.
Jay’s life was a testament to love, family, and friendship. He had a remarkable ability to connect with others, whether through sharing a laugh, a beer, or his endless talents for fixing, building, and improving. He was truly one of a kind and his absence will deeply be felt by everyone who knew him.
Jay is preceded in death by his parents, Edgar and Betty Scow, his grandparents, Roy and Inez Scow, Fred and Florence Smading, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. He is survived by his sweetheart, Terry, his children Matt (Kara) Scow, Jamie (Chuck) Price, and Lissy (Mark) Kougl; his adored grandchildren Faith (Koby), Shaye (Andrena), and Sean Scow, Derek and Kaleb Price, and Gadsden, Davny, and Joseph Scow. He is also survived by his siblings Marc (Colleen) Scow, Karlee (Dave) Smith, Ward Scow, Julie (Chuck) Bullman, and Gary Scow, along with a huge extended family and countless lifelong friends.
Jay’s legacy lives on in the love he gave, the laughter he shared, and the many lives he touched. He will be missed, but never forgotten.
Please join us in a celebration of Jay’s life on Saturday September 28, 2024 at 2:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 512 Logan St, Helena, MT.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Jay’s honor to the Montana Heritage Museum or the Lewis and Clark Humane Society.
Service Schedule
Celebration of Life
2:30 PM
Saturday September 28, 2024
St. Paul's United Methodist Church
512 Logan St
Helena, MT
Reception
Following the Service
Saturday September 28, 2024
St. Paul's United Methodist Church
,
Share
Marilyn Miller says
To Jay’s Family:
This is heartbreaking news to anyone who knew Jay during his work at the Legislature! He was everyone’s favorite person, not just because he was Johnny-on-the-Spot to fix any little thing that went wrong. He was the kindest, happiest, sweetest person in the halls of the Capitol. Marilyn Miller, Secretary of the Senate
Jill Cohenour says
Jay will be missed by all who knew him. It was a joy to see him in the Cogswell building when he cared for it but his true love was the Capital. From his infectious laugh to his belt with the smiley faces, you could not help loving him. He loved his family so much. I always knew what was happening with Faith because he was always bragging about her to all who would listen. It was an honor to have known him. -Jill Cohenour, state employee, Representative and Senator
Sanna Porte says
To Jay’s dear family, I am so sad and sorry to hear about Jay. He was one of the kindest, sunniest, most competent people I’ve ever had the honor to know. Any day I got a chance to talk with Jay and see his beaming smile, it was a good day. If only more people could be like Jay, this world would be heaven. My love to you all.
Linnea A Blair says
To all you Scows –
This is heartbreaking and I’m so sorry for your loss.
Because of the age difference, I only knew Jay as a kid – and even as a kid, he was impressive, with inherent traits that he evidently carried with him his entire life. A giving, vibrant soul who always had a smile and a great energy.
I’ll be with you as you celebrate a remarkable life.
Much love, Linnea (Anderson) Blair
Caren Scow Fisher says
A heart transcends time. You’re are missed my sweet twin cousin!
Jack Marks says
My sincere condolences to Jay’s family. I’m thankful I got the chance to catch up with him in Power Townsend a couple of weeks ago. Thanks for all of the laughs Jay!
Della Dobbins says
I’m so sad to hear of Jay’s passing. He was a wonder man. He allays had a kind word to say to everyone. He loved the “Big House” State Capitol is what we called it. It was a pleasure knowing Jay. He did a lot of handyman stuff for my Dad on his rental properties. Jay would always make a stop my our office to say hello to us all at the Secretary of States.
He will be greatly missed.
Life is so precious and I’m going to miss you my friend.
George Lane says
Jay always had a smile whenever I saw him at the Capitol or at Power-Townsend. He always managed to brighten my day.
Scott Thompson says
Jay Bird my friend I will miss you !!!! I think anyone that met you was a FRIEND
Margi Clinch says
I knew Jay and Terry; I actually knew Terry better. I feel comfortable saying I played a key part in the development of their love. In the junior year of highschool there was a Sadie Hawkins dance and Terry wanted so badly to go with him but her shy personality kept from asking him. I grew tired of it, so I called Jay and asked if would accept her invitation. He gave an enthusiastic yes to me. The next at school I hounded Terry to call and that I was certain he would say yes. Terry asked me how come I was so convinced and I finally told her I had called him and what he said. We all three shared history class and Terry was so embarrassed, she pulled her hair down to cover her face. She got over it and called Jay, and the rest is history. I’ve been praying for his family, but especially for my dear sweet friend Terry. I hope the celebration of life on Saturday will take the edge off the pain his family is feeling at this time. God bless you all.
Shelley parmer says
Julie, I am so sorry for your loss of your brother. Thinking of you and sending the biggest hug,
Prayers!
Love you
Hunter Bullman says
I remember when i was young, maybe four or five, I asked my uncle Jay if he would be my grandpa. I never got to meet either of mine, and it used to make me so sad. When I asked Jay he said yes faster than I could ask the question. I will never forget the smile on his face, and the light in his eyes, when I wanted to call him papa. He was the best back scratcher, the best popcorn maker, and the best grandpa I could have ever asked for. In times like these when experiencing a loss, it can be very easy to feel weak, which is totally okay to feel. That being said I want to remind myself and others, that although we may feel weak right now, our strength will prevail. Jay is now with each and every one of us, guiding our every move. All of his strength, which he sure had a lot of, can now be found within ourselves. I am so thankful for the strength, courtesy, and love that i acquired from Jay, not only while he was alive, but in his passing too. He will forever be missed by all that knew him, and i just want to say thank you grandpa❤️.
Jon Moe says
My sympathy goes out to Jay’s family and friends. He was a blessing to know, and was a champion of many at the Capitol building. Rest in peace my friend.
Laureen Grovom-Dordal says
Godspeed….
Donna Downs says
To my playmate and buddy, since I was 3 years old, and lifelong friend and brother, you will be sorely missed. Memories, love, and laughter to fill a lifetime. Dear “Scow kids” and families, I send all my love and thoughts to you as you journey on. Jay Bird is always with us! His life helped form us into who we are today…love you all!
Ray Todd says
Jay is the only man I have ever known who didn’t know the word, “no.” What a treasure. What a loss,
Sandy Jacke says
Jay was one of my favorite people! From the moment I met him while I was at the Attorney General’s office, to Jay’s building the Governor’s office, and a short time at the Dept. of Corrections, he was always available. He literally could fix anything! Jay was a bright light wherever he went. We had some wonderful and fun conversations! RIP Jay.
Sandy Jacke
Wayne Klinkel says
There is an old Eskimo proverb that when a person leaves this earth another star is born in the heavens. I’ve noticed the night sky is much brighter, shine on my friend.
I’ll never forget the many weekends of endless pinochle (the girls usually won), sledding, swimming, my morning dunks in the Creek, the player piano, the best breakfasts I’ve ever had and the fun we had at the Allen Creek cabin.
Plus the one night I left my IR office late opening my truck door to have I don’t know how many Rainier beer cans come jumping out at me with a laughing Jay hiding in the bushes. 😎
Cheers and we’ll see you later my friend.
Julie Massaro says
Terry, Karlee and all of Jay’s family,
My sincere condolences to you. I am sorry I won’t be able to attend the service as we have a wedding that day, but please know you are in my thoughts and prayers and I’m sending you so much love.
Dick Paulsen says
Jay warmed my heart and made me smile every!! Time we ran into each other. When you look up in the heavens at night. The brightest star in the sky is Jay and his beaming smile. Jay, I missed seeing you today at Power Townsend.
ROGER HAGAN says
To Jay’s Family, I am so sorry to read of my friend Jay’s passing. I can’t recall the first time I met Jay in the Capitol, but I know for sure he never failed to support my needs and often came up with a better solution to my project. Mr. Positive was always ‘Johnnie on the spot’ and I could rest assured if Jay said ‘got it’, it was done! My only regret is we couldn’t have spent more time together, other than each session. From what I am reading, I would have loved to spend more time with him. RIP my friend.
Carol Clark says
One of my favorite memories of Jay was him driving u bunch of us to some weekly church function. It was a clutch car with the shifter on the steering wheel. I was always glad when he was the driver because he was so much fun and always smiling. That Jay smile. Joining with you in grieving this loss.
Carol Anderson Clark
Tammy Stefanik says
Jay was one of my favorite guys while working in the Capitol building. I missed the day he was giving personalized tours to our work unit and he never let up on me for that! He also NEVER forgot anyone’s name. People was his business and he thrived at it! Jay’s smile and laughter will be missed!
Sandy Bradford says
Oh, what sad news to hear! He had the ‘can do’ attitude with a smile and most often, a twinkle in his eye. Met him working Legislative sessions. He could be a prankster but never malicious and always funny and clever. He was a joy not only at the Capitol but also at the hardware store. To the Scow family, my sincere sympathies in your loss.
Sheena Wilson says
Jay became a key member of the Governor’s Office team during my last eight years in Montana’s glorious Capitol Building. He was there when we moved in and there when we moved out and most importantly, there consistently to ensure our environs were safe and appropriately equipped for whatever might happen during our hectic days, His competent and kind presence calmed many a crisis, his quick smile cheered us all. He was a delightful human and I’m grateful to have known him,
Anne Pichette says
Lissy and Family-
I am so very sorry for your loss. Jay was so much fun and kind to everyone. I remember playing after school at your house and the fun we’d have on weekends at your cabin…I was mesmerized by the player piano and he seemed to get a big kick out of that. How lucky for me that in my adult life I got to work with him every day in the Capitol for years. He helped everyone and had such pride for the building and the work that everyone did. He was such an ambassador. There is less kindness in the world today without his bright smile and laugh. Sending you all lots of hugs and love, and strength for the days ahead.
Love, Anne
Jeanne Nevins says
I worked in the Capitol building for years and had the pleasure of knowing Jay. He always had a smile on his face. He was asked daily by many offices to take care of maintenance issues big and small which he did as quickly as possible with that same smile on his face. My deepest condolences to Jay’s family during this very sad time, I know he treasured you all.
Christine Perry says
I feel so blessed to have visited with Jay and Terry at our 50th Helena High reunion just two days before he passed away. In fact he missed the Friday night gathering because he was working at Power Townsend. We go way back to first grade at Ray Bjork School and St. John’s Lutheran Church. I remember reminiscing with him at our 40th reunion about what a great childhood we had growing up in Helena. He ended up caring for our old house on 8th Avenue that became part of the State Capitol building complex. My condolences to the entire family. Jay’s bright countenance will be greatly missed.
Lynn Staley says
Jay was such a bright spot in my many years of working at our beautiful State Capitol building. His constant smile & “can do attitude” will never be forgotten. Rest In Peace dear friend.
John and Sandra Cornish says
We were very close friends as kids, and partners in many shenanigans, of which, BTW, we were rarely caught…We had just recently reconnected during our 50th HHS reunion and were both looking forward to rekindling the friendship. I’m shocked, and saddened, by his passing, but sadly happy that I was able to spend a brief time reminiscing with Jay, and his lovely wife, Terry. Our deepest condolences to the family, and please know a standing invitation remains to visit us anytime you may find yourselves in WA state.
Take care of yourselves….
Rusty Gustine says
Terry, kids and the whole Scow crew. I’m sorry to hear of Jay’s passing. We had so much fun growing up together and you were always a part of our family. If there is anything I can do to help please let me know. Jay, you were a true friend and brother. You may be gone but will never be forgotten.
Georganne O'Connor says
Terry, Marc, Karlee, Julie and families. So sorry to hear about Jay’s passing. He was always a good guy and gave so much to others. It was a joy to know him, all of us growing up together on east sixth avenue. After all these decades he still made a point of staying in touch with his neighbor George Pendergast, now 99 years old. The Pendergasts are grateful for his presence in our lives. love, georganne
Mike Allen says
So sorry to hear of Jay’s passing. Jay was truly everyone’s friend. I had the pleasure of working with Jay at the Capitol for many years. His smile and ability to fix anything in many cases, “before anyone knew it was broke” was a quality few have. It was always great to see him each day! Jay will be missed! Rest In Peace Jay
Roxianne Verworn says
OMG! I just saw this and it just breaks my heart having grown up with all of you and being an adopted part of your family. Marc, Karlee, Ward, Julie, Gary, Terry and family, I am so sorry for your loss! My heart breaks with yours. I know Betty and Edgar were both there with open arms to bring their boy home. So many memories, wonderful memories! May God help ease the pain of loss and give you strength. Know my thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Rest in peace my friend, till we meet again and have a beer! My love to all of you!!
Cathy Duncan says
Jay was one of the kindest persons I ever had the honor of knowing. At the Capitol, he was always there with a smile on his face if anything needed fixing. He always had time for a greeting whenever and wherever our paths crossed. He was simply a special person. You will be missed. Rest in peace friend.
Pam Tyree says
Jay was always so positive and upbeat. He made my day better to see him. I’m sure he has a special place in heaven because he was such a special person.he will be missed but heaven will be that much better with Jay there. RIP Jay
Mike Cooney says
Jay was my friend but he was everyone’s friend. He was always there when you needed anything and he would make sure the job was done right. Jay enjoyed playing practical jokes on folks, all in good humor and he didn’t mind being on the receiving end. He was the guy who ran the Capitol Building and he did it with pride. We had many laughs together and that is what I will really miss. Thank you Jay for being you and thanks to the Scow family for sharing this terrific man with all of us.