Joseph Michael Lay was born in the Navy Hospital, San Diego, on Oct. 3, 1944, to Horace L. Lay and Blanche Brown Lay. He grew up in El Dorado, graduating from El Dorado High School in 1962, and Henderson State University.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his first wife, Nancy Bartsch Lay.
Joe Mike is survived by his wife, Vibsen Lay; his daughter, Michelle; a son, Scott Lay; one stepson, Ashley Bartsch and his wife, Margaret; their son, Austin and daughter, Alexis; a brother, Pat Lay and his wife, Sharon, and their daughter, Lisa Francis, and their son, Patrick Lay.
Joe Mike battled diligently through esophageal cancer over the past 18 months and fought it to the very end. He retired as an executive with Shell Oil Co. in 2003, after spending many years working throughout the South and Midwest in positions of increasing responsibility with Texaco and Shell Oil Companies. He was a fun-loving father, dedicated husband, and loved by many including his family and many members of the Oaks Country Club, where he was a member and served as president twice. He loved playing golf at the Oaks and especially loved playing with his group affectionately known as “The Sunshine Boys.”
He was preceded in death by his wife of 29 years, Nancy, when she succumbed to cancer in 2001.
He leaves his wife of 11 years, Vibsen, with a lot of fond memories as they played golf together and enjoyed traveling various places. Joe Mike loved sports and was known to be very competitive on the golf course, and was able to win many accolades and tournaments throughout his life. His friends use words like honor, integrity, courage, and honesty to describe his character. He was a great leader and always gave his best effort in everything he did. Joe Mike lived a great life and will be missed by many. His doctors and Grace Hospice are greatly appreciated by Joe Mike and the family.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 26, at Fitzgerald Southwood Colonial Chapel, 3612 E. 91st St. South, Tulsa, Okla.
In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Neighbor for Neighbor, 505 E. 36th St. North, Tulsa, OK, 74106. Arrangements are under the direction of Fitzgerald Southwood Colonial Chapel, 918-291-3500.
www.fitzgeraldsouthwoodchapel.com.