James Anthony “Tony” Lay, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and Vietnam War veteran, passed away on March 11, 2025, in Roswell, Ga., due to complications from surgery intended to relieve chronic back and hip pain.
Born and raised in Winder, Ga., he was the son of the late James and Tootsie Lay. He graduated from Winder-Barrow High School, attended West Georgia College, and earned his degree from the University of Georgia.
Tony proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1967 to 1970 rising to the rank of Sergeant in the American Division. From March 1969 to March 1970, he was stationed in Duc Pho, Vietnam, I Corps, as an Operations Sergeant for HHC, 11th Infantry Brigade. During his Vietnam tour he was captured by the enemy for a period of time before being rescued by friendly forces. His courage and resilience inspired all who knew his story.
After completing his military obligation Tony devoted his career to public service and youth development. He worked as District Director at the State YMCA of Georgia before moving his family to Clinton, Miss. There, he served as Executive Director of the State YMCA and later as Senior Auditor for the Mississippi Department of Education. His leadership and commitment to community defined every role he held.
He was an active member of the American Legion for 30 consecutive years having served as Commander and a Past Commander of American Legion Post 110 in Jackson, Miss. At the time of his death he was a member of American Legion Post 201 in Alpharetta, Ga.
A passionate guitar player, he found joy in music, participating in Kingston Trio Fantasy Camps and YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly programs. He sang in the choir and served as a deacon at First Baptist Church in Clinton, and most recently was a choir member at Mount Bethel United Methodist Church in Marietta, Ga.
His love for sports shone through in his decades-long service as a sports official for baseball, softball, football, basketball, volleyball, and soccer.
Tony is survived by his devoted wife, Barbara Guthrie Lay (Miss Virginia 1958), whom he married in 2014, along with his four children and eight grandchildren. He lived a life exemplified by service, family, and passion.
A private memorial service will be held for family and close friends, with details to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the American Bible Society or a veteran’s organization of your choice in Tony’s honor.
