Lost another great, Jay Dean of Nostalgia Ranch he collapsed at the Grand National Roadster show Friday and lost his life at the Hospital. I knew Jay as a very nice and helpful man whom was a leader in this traditional Hot Rod world, a very respected and talented man, God Bless Jay and his family he will be greatly missed by his SCTA Club members, friends, and followers.
I'm still in shock about his p***ing. Jay always took the time to answer my phone calls when I had questions about my build. He was definitely my hot rod mentor and I always liked stopping by the shop, texting, or chatting on the phone. I am gutted, and cant even imagine the profound sadness that all who knew him much longer and closer than I are experiencing. Jay touched the lives of many, and was a standup human who was super selfless and genuine on top of his outstanding mechanic, fabrication skills, and his dedication to the traditional hot rod scene. I was at the Rod and Kart booth on Saturday hanging with Hudson Joe and it was quite telling how many people stopped by to give their condolences along with teary eyed hugs. I was looking forward to seeing 4 people at the show, Joe and Daisy, Jay and Beverley. Jay was supposed to take a sign that I was trying to make for Joe as a surprise and I couldn't finish it in time. I ended up sending it with my friend the next day on Friday, and I think I have the last photo of Jay. He was admiring the sign with Joe when my friend presented it to them. 2 hours later he was gone. It's still such a shock, and I'm really bummed I wont get to hang with him at the race track anymore. Please play Rhinestone Cowboy in his memory, which I'm told was one of his favorite songs. RIP to a true legend. Rest in power Jay Dean.
I first met Jay at RPM a few years back, such a great guy, always willing to help others with their cars. RIP, may his family find peace
I Know this is a sad time, but being surrounded by beautiful mechanical creations and like-minded people seems to be an acceptable way to depart this earth if given a choice. Prayers for all his Family and Friends. Farewell, Hot Rodder!
Jay and I built my first early ford together 10 Years ago, I brought a pile of parts to his shop and 3 weeks later I drove out of his shop In my 29 av8. He told me be here every morning at 7, and we’ll get this thing knocked out in no time. The knowledge, the hustle and the devotion he had to this hobby was incredible . After we finished my car as a young 20 something year old he asked me if I’d like to work for him so I did for a few months. Loved every minute of it. He then invited me into his car club, that plaque will beheld onto with new meaning . I really am grateful for Jay, and he will be very missed .
The Jalopy Journal
