March 16, 1950 – May 2, 2026
Salt Spring has lost a long-time and deeply valued member of the community with the passing of our dear father, brother and great friend, Jay Donald Small.
Jay was an avid supporter of Legion Branch 92, where he served as President from 2013 to 2016. He could be found there the odd day, holding court with a wide circle of friends who gathered to share stories, news and plenty of laughs. Conversations ranged from local happenings and the weather to sports, crabbing, travel and work – always opinions, always good camaraderie.
After moving to Salt Spring in the early 1980s, Jay did a bit of everything: log salvage, construction, deckhand work and fishing charters with the Something Fishy. He ran scooter, car and boat rentals, a gutter business, did handyman work, owned a car wash and spent many hours on a ride-on mower. When he wasn’t on land, he was out on the water aboard the Mary Don, heading out weekly for crabbing or fishing with his crew.
Jay was well known, appreciated and respected throughout the community. He was someone people counted on, who showed up and was always there when needed. He will be truly missed and always close in our hearts.
A gathering to celebrate Jay’s life will take place at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 92 on Saturday, May 23 at 2:00 p.m.
Remember Jay well. Peter too… used to drink in Moby’s and The Local. Both me and my partner Paul.