Jay Roosevelt Spain

"Well done, good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:23

Mr. Jay Roosevelt Spain, 72 years old, of Greenville, South Carolina, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on February 25, 2025, after a brief, courageous battle with cancer. He was the devoted husband of Phyllisteen Pack Spain for 48 years, and their partnership was a testament to love, dedication, and faith.

Born on November 3, 1952, in Conway, South Carolina, he was the son of the late Leroy and Starlene Brown Spain. A man of deep faith, Jay was a lifelong member of St. Matthews United Methodist Church, where he served in a variety of leadership roles, embodying the values of service and humility that defined his life.

A proud graduate of Aynor High School, he pursued higher education at Brevard College and South Carolina State University, earning a degree in Business Administration. Jay was a dedicated professional with the Lipton Company before opening Palmetto Auto Sales in Taylors, South Carolina.

Jay’s greatest joy was his family, and he took immense pride in being a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was a beloved youth basketball coach and a devoted member of the 1973 Watergate 28 Line of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. of South Carolina State University. He took great pride in mentoring young athletes and shaping the lives of those he coached.

His memory will be cherished by his beloved wife, Phyllisteen; children, Cedric Spain, Sr. (Kelly), Jalene “Lena” (Torrence) Spain Thomas, and Shaun Spain; grandchildren, Cedric “CJ” Spain, Jr., Bryce Spain, and Aaliyah Spain; siblings, James (Ester) Spain, Lou Belle (Willie) Graham, Ivory Spain, Kenneth (Doreen) Spain; Sisters-in-Law, Josie Spain, Melvenia Spain, and Priscilla Spain; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends whose lives he touched deeply. 

Jay was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, William “Billy” Spain, George Spain, and Linwood Spain.

A service celebrating his life will be held at Watkins, Garrett, and Woods Funeral Home in Greenville, South Carolina, on Saturday, March 8 at 4:00 pm. His legacy of love, service, and faith will continue to inspire all who knew him.

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