Jay Lynn Slate, 57, of Duncan, Oklahoma, passed away Friday, January 30, 2026, at his home in Duncan.
Jay was born July 10, 1968, in Santa Maria, California, to James David Slate and Trena (Motley) Slate. He graduated from Central High School in 1986 and later earned a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology from Colorado Technical University.
Jay proudly served in the Army National Guard and was deployed in support of Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm during the Persian Gulf War. He also rode in numerous funeral detail missions with the Oklahoma Patriot Guard, standing in honor of fallen service members and veterans. His service did not end with his uniform. It continued through his actions.
He worked as an electronics technician for R&S; Services and enjoyed riding motorcycles and working on computers. To his nieces, he was their cherished Uncle Jug, a steady presence in their lives who brought laughter, loyalty, and unconditional love. He will be remembered not just for what he did, but for who he was to those who loved him.
He is survived by his parents, James David and Trena Slate of Duncan, Oklahoma; his brother, Jamie Slate, and wife Amanda of Duncan, Oklahoma; and his nieces Ashlyn Slate and fiancé Chris Franz of Moore, Oklahoma, Alexa Eefting and husband Aidan of Mesquite, Texas, Kallie Slate of Moore, Oklahoma, Rheagan Slate of Duncan, Oklahoma, and Charli Slate of Duncan, Oklahoma.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Johnny and Jay Slate of Duncan, Oklahoma, and Rose and John Motley of Santa Maria, California.
Obituary provided by Bailes Polk Funeral Home.