Jay P. Spangler, age 65, of Emmaus, passed away on October 2, 2023 surrounded by his loving family in Lehigh Valley Hospital in Allentown. Born in Pottsville, PA, he was the son of the late Donald and Virginia (Higinbotham) Spangler-Hirsch and stepfather Dr. Eugene Hirsch. He was the loving husband and best friend of Beverly A. (Lehman) Spangler with whom they shared 38 years of marriage.

Jay is survived by his wife Beverly; daughter Valery Lower and her husband Scott; son, Mason Spangler; son, Jayson Spangler and his wife Fiana; grandchildren, Kilian, Evelynn, and Livinia Spangler; sister, Kitty Spangler; brother, Christopher Spangler and his wife Leslie; nephews, Sam and Adam Spangler.

He graduated from Blue Mountain High School in 1976 where he played football and soccer. For several years, Jay worked as a draftsman and welder in Pittsburgh, PA. After which he worked as a Printing Press Operator for R.R. Donnelley for the last 35 years.

Jay's love of sports, specifically the Pittsburgh Steelers, and his love of the outdoors permeated many aspects of his life. He followed all three major Pittsburgh teams, Emmaus High School Football, and Indy car racing. He assisted coaching several of his children's sports teams as they were growing up, and always made time to watch all his children and grandchildren play as well - his grandchildren even called him "Coach." Jay thoroughly enjoyed hiking the Appalachian Trail. He was proud to complete all PA and NJ sections along with several others from the surrounding states. His encouragement in the outdoors directly influenced his children's drive to excel in Scouting. He was the proud parent of two Eagle Scouts.  In his free time, he loved spending vacations in North Carolina, reading, tending to his fish ponds, playing his guitar, and attending concerts. Jay's dedication to his family and his commitment to be present in their lives was his greatest affirmation of love. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed.

Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, October 11, 2023 at 12:00 Noon, in Faith Church, 6528 Hamilton Blvd, Allentown, PA 18106. Viewing will be held from 10:00-12:00 Noon prior to service. Interment will be held in Emmaus Moravian Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jay's memory to Appalachian Trail Conservancy @ https://appalachiantrail.org/ or Faith Church, 6528 Hamilton Blvd. Allentown, PA., 18106.

Schantz Funeral Home, P.C., Emmaus is handling arrangements.