John Jay Fetzer, 29, of Phoenix, Arizona passed away on September 4, 2021. He leaves a tremendous void in the hearts of his family and friends who will miss his creative spirit, intellect, loyal friendship, and wonderful sense of humor. John Jay was at his best and happiest when he was helping or working collaboratively with others on a purposeful endeavor.
John Jay was born September 25, 1991, to Sarah Suggs and Jim Fetzer at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Phoenix AZ. A fourth generation Arizonan, his presence brought a sense of warmth and acceptance to all he met. He spent his life in Arizona, California and New York. In Phoenix, Jay attended Christ Lutheran School, Arcadia High School and Arizona State University. He graduated from the ASU Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts with a degree in Digital Culture with Emphasis on Entrepreneurship.
In his desire to further the mission of the Sandra Day O’Connor Institute for American Democracy, he served as Director of Digital Culture for the Institute since 2018. He was equal part, Film Maker, Video Producer, Graphic Artist and more, all to further the mission of this prestigious organization that meant so much to him. In addition, Jay was a music enthusiast and composer. One of John Jay’s favorite places on Earth was at his father Jim’s ranch, Ceago, in Lake County, CA where he learned about wine making and the legacy of the Fetzer family of winemakers.
John Jay is survived by his mother Sarah Suggs and father Jim Fetzer, daughter Sofia Isabella Fetzer, stepmother Carleen Butler, siblings Andraya Fetzer, Katrina Fetzer, Barney Fetzer and Michaela Fox.
A memorial service and reception will be held at Paradise Valley Country Club on Friday, September 10, 2021 from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The memorial service will be from 3:30 to 4:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers and should anyone wish to acknowledge John Jay Fetzer’s significant work furthering the mission of The Institute, donations may be made to: The Sandra Day O’Connor Institute for American Democracy: In honor of John Jay Fetzer. Sandra Day O’Connor Institute for American Democracy; P.O. Box 66422; Phoenix, AZ 85082. Or online at https://oconnorinstitute.org/donating-to-a-nonprofit/
Kaitlin Kool (Flynn)
This tragic news has me at a loss for words. I’m so sorry for your loss and am grieving with you. From grade school to middle school to high school I was able to really get to know Jay. I wish I could make the funeral. My sincere condolences ❤️
Jane (Blaile) Holmes
Jay was a bright spot in my 5th grade classroom. He had a positive attitude, a caring spirit and was lots of fun. I’m saddened at the loss of such a dynamic young man.
Mike & Molly Brown
Please know that Jay will be remembered and missed. He will be in our prayers. Our deepest sympathy to Jay’s family. No words can adequately express how sorry we are to hear that Jay is gone. Too soon.