Jay was born in Kanab, UT on February 9, 1954. He grew up on the Mackelprang family ranch, The Beanhole, and Fredonia, AZ. Jay was a talented athlete excelling at football throughout his high school career. He graduated from Fredonia High School in 1972. Upon graduation, Jay enlisted in the U.S. military Air Force and served as an M.P. in Cheyenne, WY. In 1979 Jay began his lifetime career with the Town of Fredonia, working as the Public Works Director. Jay was a fearless and passionate cowboy and hunter. He enjoyed the solitude of being outdoors hiking, arrowhead hunting, fishing, and working the ranch.

Jay is survived by his 4 loving children Melissa (Dan) Hunnicut of Las Vegas, NV; Kasha Mackelprang of Las Vegas, NV; Carrie Johnson of Fredonia, AZ; Justin (Dynel) Mackelprang of Fredonia, AZ; 7 Grandchildren Danyelle Hunnicut, Shawna Hunnicut, Sadasa Mackelprang, Kelli Johnson, Britt Johnson, JayDon Mackelprang, and Karlee Mackelprang; Brothers Donny Mackelprang, Brent Mackelprang, Sisters Cindy Mackelprang and Thea Havins; Mother, Antoinette Mackelprang, former spouse, Alicia Mackelprang, and many adoring family members; he was preceded in death by his Father Don Mackelprang and nephew Chad Mackelprang.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 30, 2019, 12:00pm, at Mosdell Mortuary, Kanab, UT.  Graveside Burial will follow at Fredonia Cemetery. The family invite honoring cowboys to share in Jay’s Last Ride to the graveside services. The family will greet friends, to celebrate in memories of Jay, at the Fredonia ward immediately following graveside services.