Jay A. Deem, 99, died Thursday February 13, 2020 at 9:05 am in Taylorville Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Taylorville, Il. He was born December 23, 1920 in Alton, Il. 

Jay graduated from Alton High School and joined Owens Illinois Glass Co. He enlisted in the Navy with the start of WW2 and completed radio/radar training at Naval Training School, Treasure Island, there after joining the crew of the newly commissioned submarine USS Puffer. He served on all 8 war time patrols of the USS Puffer and received the silver star for his service. Following the war, he joined Illinois Bell Telephone Co. working there until his retirement. His hobbies included bicycling and amateur radio where he held an extra class license as W9GK. 

Jay was preceded in death by his wife Mary H. Deem (2008), his parents, and his brother, Clark.
Survivors include his two daughters, Jade Deem and Holly Deem; his two sons Jim Deem and Jake Deem; five grandchildren; eleven great grandchildren.

Cremation has already occurred. Jay will be receiving a military service at Camp Butler National Cemetery at a date to be determined. Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.