Jay Dietrich

Jackie Jerald “Jay” Dietrich, Jr. passed away on March 7, 2026. Born on January 23, 1955 to Jack and Carol Dietrich, Jay was a lifelong resident of Aransas County. He graduated from Rockport-Fulton High School in 1973 after attending Fulton Elementary and Rockport-Fulton Junior High. He briefly studied radio broadcasting before building a career in the marine and oilfield industries.

Preceded in death by his mother, Carol Dietrich; his father, Jackie Dietrich, Sr.; his stepmother, Ruth Dietrich; his sisters, Tamara Dietrich and Debra Heasley; and his brothers, Glenn Dietrich and Lee Haskin II, Jay is survived by his wife, Sarilyn; his daughter, Stephanie (Corey); and his grandchildren, Ellie and Milo. He is also survived by his sisters, Lenora Pendleton (Jim), Rhonda Goins (Jerry), and Carol Harrison (Randy); brother-in-law Ron Heasley; and many nieces and nephews.

Jay loved spending time with family and friends. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, skiing, and attending rock concerts, with a special fondness for ZZ Top. Always sharply dressed and groomed, he carried himself with a cool, confident presence reminiscent of a post-James Dean era. He married Sarilyn on December 22, 2005, and the couple shared a deep love for the outdoors. Together they created many cherished memories hunting at Guadalupe River State Park and in Raton, New Mexico, while spending weekends fishing, duck hunting, and water skiing. Summer vacations were often spent camping at the Frio River with family and friends.

Jay lived a life full of memorable adventures and quiet loyalty. He brought joy to everyone around him with his quick wit, kind words, and humorous stories. His mission seemed to be making others smile and feel special, and in that he succeeded completely.