Jay Alan Ransom, age 66, of Lockport, IL formerly of Coal City, passed away unexpectedly due to a heart attack on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at his residence.

He was born on March 15, 1958 in Morris, IL to Lavina (nee Hougas) Ransom. He grew up in the Coal City area, attending Coal City High School with the class of 1976. He served his country with the Military Police (SP4) in the United States Army and was honorably discharged in 1979.

Jay devoted his life to Alcoholics Anonymous. He became involved with the non-for-profit Alano Club of Joliet, serving as the secretary for numerous years. He was instrumental in the writing of their by-laws and also assisted with the financial component of the organization. Most recently, Jay was the President of the Alano Club of Joliet and held the highest recognition as the Area 52 DCM and is survived by hundreds of close friends and associates. Jay was also involved with the non-for-profit organization Cornerstone Services, Inc. of Joliet.

Jay's passion was his work with plays, theatre, commercials and movies. Initially he worked in the photography and set-up department and later in life did some directing.  A lover of music, Jay played the bass guitar with friends in a band when he was in high school. He also enjoyed gardening with his love, Cynthia. Jay was very well read and loved to talk about current events as well as reminisce about the past, especially growing up in Coal City.

He is survived by his sister, Terri Irish; his brother, Jon Ransom; his special companion of 25 years, Cynthia Ross; numerous cousins from the Hougas descendants; special cousins, Vera (Wharrie) Lynch, Rich Wharrie and Larry (Shirley) Wharrie; numerous friends, classmates, colleagues and a special friend, Joe Faletti.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Lavina (Hougas) Ransom in 1967, when Jay was nine years old; special aunt and uncle, Patricia (Hougas) Wharrie and Milton "Mutt" Wharrie, whom he lived with for several years and guardians, Joseph R. Faletti and Alice P. Faletti. He was also preceded by numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Preferred donations to the Alano Club of Joliet, 1807 Plainfield Rd., Crest Hill, IL 60403.

Cremation rites have been accorded.

Inurnment with full military honors will be held at 11:00 am  on Friday, June 27, 2025 at  Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, 20953 West Hoff Road, Elwood, IL 60421. Those wishing to attend can meet at the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery Information Center at 10:45 am. Ferrari Funeral Services will escort to the Committal Shelter.

Family and friends are encouraged to sign the online guestbook at www.ferrarifuneral.com

Ferrari Funeral Services of Coal City are entrusted with arrangements.