Jay Love

Jay Franklin Love, 60, of Davis, South Dakota, passed away peacefully at home on the morning of October 1, 2026, following several years of declining health. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at West Nidaros Cemetery, located at 25403 471st Avenue, north of Crooks, South Dakota. Those attending are asked to enter the cemetery using the west entrance off 254th Street. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Humane Society or to a local ambulance or fire department. Arrangements provided by Hofmeister-Jones Funeral Home.

Jay was born in Portland, Oregon, to William Henry and Janice llene (Gay) Love. He lost both of his parents at a young age and was raised by an aunt. He grew up alongside his older sister, Lori.

Jay was an over-the-road truck driver, and it was out in the trucking world where he met his soulmate, Teresa. What began as a deep friendship grew into love, marriage, and a life together on the road. For a time, they were a driving team, traveling the country in their blue semi, affectionately known as "The Love Shack." Their two dogs were part of the family and traveled right alongside them.

Eventually, Jay and Teresa decided they wanted a life that would allow them to spend more time at home. Jay put his experience to work teaching future truck drivers the rules of the road, while Teresa went to work for the post office. It didn't take long, however, for Jay to find his way back behind the wheel. He returned to driving and eventually joined FedEx Freight in Sioux Falls, where he was able to do what he loved while still being home every night.

Jay and Teresa were also active members of the South Dakota Truck Driving Champions Club. Jay competed in the South Dakota Truck Driving Championships several times and, after earning a state championship title, went on to compete at the National Truck Driving Championships. On his second trip to the national competition in 2016, Jay brought home the National Championship in the Flatbed Class, an accomplishment he was very proud of.

Jay and Teresa also found time to give back to their little town of Davis. Jay served as the town's Mayor and, in a role that suited his personality perfectly, its Chief Mosquito Sprayer. Teresa handled the books. Together, they made quite a team and were always willing to pitch in and help their community.

Jay will be remembered for his love of trucking, his competitive spirit, his willingness to help others, and his unique sense of humor. Most of all, he will be remembered as someone who loved deeply and valued the people and animals who became part of his life.

Jay is survived by his sister, Lori (Jack) Pinkerd of Jacksonville, Florida; nephews Josh and Derek and their families; his wife's mother, LeAnn (Joe) Hummel; his wife's stepmother, Lou Rice; special friend from the South Dakota Trucking Association, Michelle Wells; and his caregiver and lawn-care angel, Amie Larson.

Jay was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife and love of his life, Teresa, who passed away four and a half years ago; many special friends; and numerous beloved fur children.

Jay's family is extremely grateful to the EMT responders who made numerous trips to help Jay and transport him to the hospital over the years. They also extend a special thank-you to his neighbors and friends, Sheryl, Gene, and Helen, for their kindness, friendship, and all the ways they looked out for Jay.

Jay lived a life that took him many miles down the road, but the people he loved and the lives he touched were what mattered most. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.