Christopher Jay Elam

Christopher Jay Elam, 61, passed away suddenly on Friday, Aug. 17, 2012.  He was doing what he loved best, cooking barbecue for a crowd.

He was born June 7, 1951, to Vernon D. and Sydney (Combs) Elam in Whitefish.

He loved Montana, his family, Jehovah, and cooking and hated lawns.  He thought everything should stay in its natural state and dandelions were beautiful.  Jay spent the last few years taking care of his mother, who is disabled.  He was her rock.

Survivors include his mother Sydney Combs Derrick, father Vernon Elam and wife Joan; brothers Michael and wife Kerry, niece Kiera; Tracey Elam; children Jason Gabriel Elam and Melissa Aimee and husband James, grandchild Jameson; Devon Ciara; and a million friends.

Memorial services were Friday, Aug. 24, at the Jehovah’s Witness Hall in Eureka.

Arrangements are by Schnackenberg & Nelson Funeral Home in Eureka.