Jay Carrol Elmore

In Loving Memory of Jay Carrol Elmore

March 29, 1959 – November 8, 2026

Jay Carrol Elmore, 67, of Carthage, Missouri, passed away on November 8, 2026.

Born on March 29, 1959, in Wichita, Kansas, on a military base, Jay lived a life marked by hard work, laughter, music, and the people he loved.

Jay spent much of his life working as a truck driver, putting in long hours and earning his living through hard work and determination.

But if you knew Jay, you knew there was a lot more to him than work. He was a funny man, a natural storyteller, and someone who loved to laugh. He had a way with words, never missed an opportunity to talk a little crap, and could keep family and friends entertained with his stories and quick wit. He loved giving people a hard time, but that was part of his charm.

As a dad, Jay was goofy, fun-loving, and never short on personality. He had a big heart and was the kind of man who would help anyone he could. Whether you needed a hand, a laugh, or someone to listen, Jay was someone who was willing to show up. He may have given you a hard time while helping you, but that was just Jay being Jay.

Music was another love of his. In his younger years, he enjoyed playing bass guitar, and music remained one of the things that brought him joy.

Jay was previously married to Claudia Elmore, with whom he shared 20 years of marriage and three children: Starlett Elmore Demery, Savella Elmore, and Wesley Elmore.

He was a proud grandfather to four grandchildren: Dylan Stafford, McKenzie Elmore, Aryan Thomas, and Aiden Thomas.

Jay was preceded in death by his parents, Nola Elmore and Jacob (JD) Elmore.

He is survived by his three children, Starlett Elmore Demery, Savella Elmore, and Wesley Elmore; his four grandchildren, Dylan Stafford, McKenzie Elmore, Aryan Thomas, and Aiden Thomas; his brothers, Dewayne Husted, Michael Elmore, and Ralph Elmore; and his sister, Donna Elmore Smith.

Jay leaves behind a family full of memories, stories, laughter, and probably a few stories that are better left untold.

He will be remembered for his hard work, generous heart, goofy sense of humor, love of music, and the unmistakable personality that made him who he was. His laughter, his stories, and his good-natured crap talking will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him.

A private family gathering will be held to honor Jay’s life and celebrate the memories he leaves behind.

Rest easy, Dad. You worked hard, loved big, helped others, and never missed a chance to make somebody laugh. We’ll take it from here.

Arrangements are under the direction of Ozark Memorial Park of Joplin, MO