EVELYN MARGARET JAY, age 76, of Worthington, formerly of Heron Lake, died Wednesday, July 8th, 2015, in her home surrounded by her family. Evelyn was born February 9th, 1936, in Brooklyn, NY to John and Violet (Mulligan) Fannin.  Evelyn graduated in 1956 from Bay Ridge High School and worked as a receptionist in the Times Square building in New York City for four years, taking the subway and ferry back and forth to work. While living in Brooklyn she met her future husband, Tom Jay, while he was serving in the Army at Fort Totten Army Base, Long Island, NY.
On September 27th, 1960, they were married in Brooklyn, NY. After their marriage Tom moved Evelyn to Pipestone, MN and Tom managed the Jack and Jill Grocery Store.  The couple also lived in Hutchinson, MN for a short time.  In 1967, Evelyn and Tom moved to Heron Lake after purchasing the Red Owl Grocery Store which later became Jack and Jill. They also owned and operated the Corner Café in Heron Lake, Jack and Jill Grocery Store in Mountain Lake and Okabena, MN. Evelyn also did catering and was famous for her potato salad and caramel rolls. After giving their heart and soul to their business for 36 years, Tom and Evelyn retired and moved to Worthington, MN in 2002.
Evelyn was a volunteer EMT for the Heron Lake Ambulance for over 20 years.  Evelyn also was one of the first female firefighters in the tri-county area, serving for over 10 years as a firefighter alongside her husband Tom.  Prior to her training, she was always at the scene with food for the crew. She also served on the Lakeview Nursing Home board.
Evelyn dedicated her life to helping others and was there for many offering support, love and friendship and only asking for a hug in return. She raised a family of five teaching them to be strong, confident and giving.  She was a mother that led by example.  It was important to both Tom and Evelyn that their children be raised with a strong work ethic and a generous spirit.  They always worked together as a family.
Faith in God was very important to Evelyn and she let it guide her through life courageously.  She had a strong belief in God, and let His strength help her make the right choices.  Her family is at peace knowing she is resting in God's hands.
Evelyn is survived by her husband, Tom Jay, Worthington, MN; five children, Linda (Daryle) Albersman, Worthington, MN; Tom Jay, Austin, TX;  Don Jay, Austin, TX;  Barb (Darryl) Bosshart, Foley, MN; Sarah (Russ) Markfelder, Rice, MN; six grandchildren, Logan, Levi and Landon Bosshart; Andrew, Sophia and Austin Markfelder; sister Elizabeth (John) Egger, Cameron, TX.
She was preceded in death by her parents John and Violet (Mulligan) Fannin.

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