Ott, Jobe T. "Jay", 80

A beloved brother, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, attorney and philanthropist passed away August 25, 2012 at Jackson Hospital, surrounded by his family and following a lengthy illness.. Jay was born in Sylacauga, AL on April 13, 1932 to Major Lee and Bethane Burleson Ott. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother Lee Ott. He is survived by his sisters Betty Ott Cobb (Buddy) and Bonnie Ott Wallace and many nieces and nephews.

Jay grew up in Montgomery and graduated Lanier in 1951, leaving that day for the U.S.M.C. and later to Korea, where he was twice wounded and received the Purple Heart. Upon his return he met Ruth Mitchell and they were married in February 1955.

He leaves his devoted wife and two children and their spouses: Catherine Ott Watts and Jim of Panama City, Florida, and Jay Thomas Ott and Karen of Snellville Georgia; his grandchildren Brandon Ott (Carla) and their daughters Caroline and Caitlyn; Rachel Ott Kelley (Doug) and their children William, Gavin and Roxy ; Dillon Ott and Megan Ott, all of Georgia; Madeline Watts Franklin (Michael) and their son Cas of Puerto Rico, and James Cody and Nicki Watts of Uganda. Jay graduated Auburn December 1969, earned his Masters in Social Work at the University of Alabama in 1972 and his Juris Doctor at Jones School of Law in 1993. Jay had three careers - 11 years with his family in Major Roofing Company, 26 years in state government with the Welfare Department (Human Resources), and 16 years in private practice with major emphasis on Elder Law. He was active in law until this month. He was also past president of the Montgomery Art Guild, appeared in 13 Little Theater productions, served two terms on the Museum Board, was on the board of MACOA, and a member of the Montgomery Kiwanis Club. He was a kind, compassionate man who was a friend to all he met, and will be greatly missed by so many.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, August 28th, 2:00 o'clock at Leak Memory Chapel with Rev. Paul Turner officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Memorials may be made to MACOA or the charity of choice . Online condolences may be made at www.leak-mc.com.