Jay "Kent" McCleary, 79, of West Jordan, Utah, passed away on May 28, 2023, after a courageous battle with pulmonary fibrosis. He was a great family man who loved his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was a wonderful example to all who knew him and was quick to befriend everyone he met.

Kent was born in Murray, Utah, on March 19, 1944, to William and Delsa McCleary. He graduated from Jordan High School and went on to play basketball and baseball for the University of Utah. Kent served in the Army Reserves and later married the love of his life, Sharla Fairbourne, on June 16, 1966. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Salt Lake Temple.

Kent worked as an accountant at Kennecott Utah Copper Company for over 35 years. He enjoyed sports, particularly golf, and was a passionate fan. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where he served in many capacities, including as bishop.

Kent is survived by his wife, Sharla Fairbourne McCleary, his sons, Jay Brett McCleary (Lisa) and Collyn McCleary (Lisa), and daughter Tiffany McCleary Sedgley (Alan) , grandchildren Jaycie, Landon (Montana), Riley (Amanda), Brennan, Trevor (Hannah), Morgan, A.Jay, Jared, Cole, and McKenzie, and one great-grandchild (Presley), and two coming soon. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Delsa McCleary, and his brothers, William McCleary, Donald Kay McCleary, and Jerry McCleary.

A viewing will be held on Friday, June 2, 2023, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the LDS Church Building located at 8825 South 3200 West in West Jordan, and Saturday, June 3, 2023, from 9:30-10:45 a.m. at the West Jordan Mountain View Stake Center, located at 2901 West 9000 South in West Jordan. The funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at the West Jordan Mountain View Stake Center. Flowers may be sent to McDougal Funeral Home in Taylorsville. Interment at Larkin Sunset Gardens immediately following the funeral service.

Thank you for being the best Dad, Husband, Grandpa and example to us all! We will miss you more than words can describe. We love you!