Jefferson "Jay" P. Wallen

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Jefferson "Jay" Pressley Wallen, age 83, who left this world on October 29, 2026, at Senator Bob Hooper's House in Forest Hill, MD. Jay was beloved as a devoted husband to Janet Dolores (Richardson) Wallen for 27 wonderful years.

Born on March 4, 1943, in Van Bibber, MD, Jay was one of 16 children raised by the late Zella F. (Mullins) and Rev. Kemp W. Wallen. A Master Plumber by trade, Jay also ventured into the construction industry, where he took great pride in building residential homes. His passion extended beyond professional pursuits; he cherished the beauty of the Smoky Mountains, enjoyed gardening, and found joy in hiking and fishing. A man of artistic flair, Jay loved woodworking and was known for his creativity, inventing useful tools and crafting beautiful pieces. He often reminisced about his adventurous childhood and poured his heart into writing stories that captured the richness of those experiences.

Jay is survived by his loving wife, Janet; two children, Kimberly Ann Smith and Jeffrey Scot Wallen; two step-children, Sheila Hooker and husband Daniel, and Steven Mabe and wife Sabrina; four grandchildren, Tanner Smith and wife Jean Holland, Mackenzie and Colin Smith, and Leah Wallen; and nine step-grandchildren, Keith, Sarah, Cherish, and Joseph Hooker, as well as Brooke Robinson, Akira, Alex, Bella Mabe and Tabitha Leiser. He was a cherished member of the Higher Ground Worship Center in Darlington, MD.

Funeral services to honor Jay's remarkable life will take place on Friday, November 6, 2026. Public viewing will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by a meaningful service starting at 12:00 PM at Freedom Community Church, located at 205 S. Main St., Shrewsbury, PA 17361. Jay will be laid to rest in St. John's UCC Cemetery in New Oxford, PA, where family and friends can come together in remembrance.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Development Office at Stella Maris, 2300 Dulaney Valley Road, Timonium, MD 21093, or to the Senator Bob Hooper House. Donations can be made online at [Senator Bob Hooper House](https://www.umms.org/uch/giving/make-a-donation-online) by selecting Bob Hooper House as the designated location.

Online condolences can be shared on this page under "Share A Memory." Jay's memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His legacy of love, creativity, and adventurous spirit will undoubtedly continue to inspire us all.