49-Year-Old Dad Of 2 Dies, Fundraiser Started For Basking Ridge Family

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Described as a "beacon of positivity" 49-year-old Basking Ridge husband and father of two Jay Medenilla has died and a community is mourning.

"Jay was one of the great ones… A beacon of positivity and constant source of smiles for everyone fortunate enough to know him. Jay brought joy to every room he entered and was a constant reminder of the power of a positive outlook on life," according to a GoFundMe fundraising website set up for the family.

Jay was a loving husband to Sara, who is a school nurse at Oak Street School in the township. Together they have two children. Jay was a "truly remarkable individual, a devoted and proud dad" of Jacob who is a freshman at Ridge High School, and Maura who is a freshman at Boston University.

"He had an extraordinary ability to touch the lives of those around him. He was genuine, always lifting others up, and it was hard not to smile when in his presence - as Jay was always smiling," according to the GoFundMe.

The fundraiser was established so that the community can come together and honor the memory of Jay Medenilla by supporting his family in their time of need.

For more information on the fundraiser or to donate visit gofundme.com/f/jay-medenilla.

Memorial services will be held Friday, Oct. 6 at St. James Church at 184 S Finley Ave in Basking Ridge. The wake will be 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. followed by the service at 2:30 p.m. All are welcomed and encouraged to join.

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