Jay Clarence Risher

Jay Clarence Risher went to be with his Lord and Savior on March 14, 2013. He was born in New Lexington, Ohio on October 27, 1917 the son of Jay Cecil Risher and Lella Milissa Risher. Jay retired as a Lieutenant Colonel from the United States Air Force in 1966. In 1967 he opened Risher’s TV and Appliance Shop in Valpariso, Florida In 1974 he moved to Mossy Head, Florida and opened a small nursery. Jay loved working with his hands and could fix or build most anything. He loved to grow plants. He was an avid photographer. He was an active member of New Harmony Baptist Church, the first president of the Walton County Gideon Camp and a member of Campers on Mission. Jay and his wife Alice frequently traveled with the Campers and shared the Gospel of Jesus Christ wherever they went. He always welcomed his numerous children, grandchildren and friends with open arms. He was willing to help anyone anyway he could. And always opened his home to those in need. Jay befriended everyone who crossed his path. He was a loving man, much loved. He is preceded in death by his father and mother and his first wife, Betty Lorraine Risher to whom he was married for 48 years and his daughter Linda Bernice Patterson.

Her is survived by his wife, Alice Risher of DeFuniak Springs. His sister, Wanda Blakley of Columbus, Ohio; his sons Jay C.Risher of DeFuniak Spring, Lawerance E. Risher of Enterprise, Charles W. Risher of Independence, Kentucky, Richard D. Risher of Laurel Hill, Robert L. Risher of Stockbridge, Georgia, John T. Risher of Ft. Myers, Hap M. Foster of Auburndale, Florida and Tommy Foster of DeFuniak Springs. His daughters Carolyn McGhee of Covington, Gerogia, Rene Jones of Cantonment, Florida, Cynthia S. Lynn of DeFuniak Sorings, Janice E. Bailie of Crestview, Nancy G. Bailie of DeFuniak Springs and Patricia Berch of DeFuniak Springs. In addition Jay leaves behind 28 grandchildren, 60 great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren.

Floral arrangements are being accept. A time of visitation will be Monday, March 18, 2013 from 10 until 11 A.M. in New Harmony Baptist Church. Funeral services will begin at 11 A.M. Monday in New Harmony Baptist Church with Reverend Charles W. Risher officiating. Military graveside honors will follow in New Harmony Baptist Church Cemetery.