Jay Ronald Hendley

Jay Ronald Hendley, age 86 passed away on Saturday, January 13, 2023. Ron was born December 6, 1937, in Atlanta, Georgia to Maud Hendley and Albert Gordon Hendley. Ron grew up in Atlanta and went to Northside High School and later Georgia Tech. He went on to use his engineering skills working for Atlanta Sheet Metal and then starting his own business C & H Marine Construction in Orange Park, Florida where he designed and built docks and marine structures.

Throughout his life his adventurous spirit also led him to pursue a range of hobbies. They included scuba diving where he met the love of his life India Kemp Hendley at Jenny Springs. Together they explored many of the springs and caves in north Florida and most notably discovering “Hendleys Castle” a section of the underwater cave system in the Peacock III Spring.

Together they shared many other hobbies; hunting, water skiing, tennis, running and not just running; they ran 16 marathons and many other races including triathlons. They were involved with the Florida Striders running club.

Among his other hobbies there was golf and photography. He always excelled at all of them, winning many awards for each. He also enjoyed dancing, clogging and gospel music. He did enjoy life to the fullest.

Mr. Hendley is survived by his 2 children from his former wife; Michele Harrison of Gainesville, Georgia, and Debbie (Mark) Burr of Milton, Georgia; his grandchildren Steven, Julie, Hayley, Augustin, and Matthew, two great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his beloved wife India; his brother Albert Hendley, his sisters Margaret Coleman and Marilyn “ Bootsie” Land.

His stories will be told, and his life will continue to be celebrated.

The family will hold a celebration of life later at a later date.