William “Jay” Elliott

Published 2:42 pm Wednesday, January 22, 2025

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March 4, 1947 – January 15, 2025

William “Jay” Elliott, 77, a lifelong resident of Dowagiac, passed away on Wednesday morning, January 15, 2025, at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo, MI.

Jay was born on March 4, 1947, in Dowagiac, MI to the late William and Alice (King) Elliott.

Jay, as many knew him, was an honorary member of the Dowagiac Fire Dept for 55 years. He also helped with the gates at home football games. When not doing this, Jay could be seen walking through town visiting local businesses, or at home tending to his cat. He also enjoyed spending time with his best friends Bobby and Lupe Nelson who were always there to help him when he needed it.

Jay is survived by two sisters – Arlene D. Keys of Dowagiac, and Rita K Quijas of Niles; nieces and nephews – Sally and Daine Keys, Charles, Jake, Priscilla and April Hatfield, Bruce Stillwell and Leon Quijas.

Jay is preceded in death by his parents – three sisters – Sue Hatfield, Norma Elliott and Theresa Elliott; brothers-in-law – James A Keys Sr and nephew – James “Jimmy” Keys Jr.

A service to celebrate Jays’ life will be held at 12:00 pm Saturday, February 8, at Clark Chapel – Starks Family Funeral Homes, 405 Center St, Dowagiac, where friends may visit with his family from 11:00 am until the time of service. Inurnment will follow in Riverside Cemetery. Please visit Jay’s personalized webpage to share a memory or leave a condolence to his family at www.clarkch.com.