Jay was born October 25, 1951 in Johnston County to the late Joseph Aubrey Winston, Jr. and Kathleen Edwards Winston.

Jay grew up in Clinton, NC.  He received a Bachelor's of Art degree from Campbell University and a Master's of Divinity from Southeastern Theological Seminary. He was a minister in the United Church of Christ before becoming a Methodist minister for 35 years until retiring in 2021. After retirement he and Donnie moved to Sanford to be closer to family. Over the years he had various passions; including gardening, reading, being outdoors and discussing history and philosophy. He loved hummingbirds, windchimes and was an avid Duke fan. Jay was a child at heart and loved making his grandchildren laugh.

Jay is survived by his wife of 50 years, Donnie Stewart Winston; daughters, Claire Winston Mims, Nicole Winston Powell (Heath), Alyson Paige Winston (Kenneth Royal); grandchildren, PJ, Dylan, Jordan, Kendall, Emma, Aubrey, Luke, Ayden and Dalton; great grandchildren, Caroline and Paisley.

A memorial service will be held 11am Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at Spring Hill United Methodist Church, 1960 Spring Hill Church Rd., Lillington, NC 27546 with Rev. Dr. Bobby Rackley officiating.  The family will receive friends 10am – 10:45am prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Spring Hill United Methodist Church; or Cape Fear Botanical Gardens in Fayetteville, NC.