Obituary: Jay Scott Kendall, 66, Of Milford, West Haven

Information via Gregory F. Doyle Funeral Home

MILFORD, CT — Jay Scott Kendall, age 66, beloved husband of Laur-Al (Serini) Kendall of West Haven, passed away on January 27, 2024 at Yale New Haven Hospital following a brief illness. Jay was born in New Haven, the son of the late Arnold and Carol (Seidner) Kendall. In addition to his wife of thirty years, he leaves behind his loving daughter, Alexandra (Alex) Kendall, his two brothers, Howard R. Kendall and Michael G. Kendall, all of West Haven. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Sher-Al Serini, of Milford. He also leaves many friends.

Jay was well known in the community as the co-owner of Kendall Tax Services in West Haven. It was there that he did the work that he loved in the company of his beloved wife and business partner, Lauri. Prior to opening Kendall Tax Services, Jay worked for Tax Services of Milford for more than 20 years. It was there that he met his future bride.

Jay was also very proud to have been “Santa’s Tax Guy”, an honor he earned through his work with the Connecticut Society of Santas. Jay’s philosophy was that he could not change the fact that people had to file income tax returns, but he could change their experience for the better. His primary goal was to get the job done efficiently and in as comfortable an environment as possible. When you sat in the chair across from him, he treated you with dignity and respect. All who knew him appreciated his quick wit, his incredible sense of humor, and his fierce sense of loyalty to family and friends. Jay had the ability to relate to people in a manner that made them feel as though they were having a conversation with a trusted friend.

Jay also had an incredible knack for storytelling, whether he was telling a story about Alex’s college life and her accomplishments, or simply relating a tale of Ripley’s (his beloved golden retriever) latest antics, you felt as though you were there.

Jay had an insatiable appetite for learning and a love of life in general. He loved reading, and had many other hobbies and interests. He enjoyed watching movies, working on electronics, and being an amateur radio operator. He also enjoyed photography, trivia, and listening to all kinds of music, especially classical.

Because of his easy going personality, his dependability, and his inquisitive nature, he was everyone's “go to person”. He was always willing to answer questions, and if he didn’t know the answer, he would make a point of finding out, even if it was only for his own satisfaction. Jay was a devoted family man. He was happiest when he was spending time with his beloved wife, Lauri and daughter, Alex, and brothers Howard and Michael. Jay loved to take “trips down memory lane”, recounting “classic moments in Kendall history.”

Jay also loved to travel. He and Lauri traveled to China, San Francisco, Florida, and Pennsylvania, among other places. Once she was old enough, Alex joined in on many of the trips. Jay’s favorite travel destination, by far, was Sturbridge Massachusetts, which was like a second home for him. Whether it was for a quick getaway to relax and unwind, or for the annual family Thanksgiving celebration, he was always happy to be there. He, Lauri, and Alex were members at Old Sturbridge Village for more than ten years.

Friends and family are invited to a celebration of Jay’s life on Friday, March 22nd at Doyle Funeral Home in Milford. Visitation will be from 9-11 am, and the memorial service will take place at 11 am. To leave an online condolence, please visit, www.gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com.