GROTON: It is with a heavy heart and great sorrow we let all who knew Jay, of his unexpected passing on August 14th. Joseph Walter Vaisin was born February 8th, 1943 to Ethel and Walter Vaisin. He was raised in Illinois where he grew up with his sister Carolyn. Upon graduating from St. Procopius Academy, Jay enlisted in the United States Navy where he proudly served for 20 years. During his time with the Navy, Jay was an accomplished rescue diver. After his naval retirement, Jay worked for NUSC, before settling into his job at Groton Utilities Water Treatment Facility. His knowledge for all things mechanical proved to be just what they needed. Upon retiring, he would still receive a phone call or two seeking his advice and expertise. He made many a good friend while there.
Jay loved all things car related, and as a young man would fix up and make a car faster than expected.
In 1969, he married his wife Jessie Miller, with whom he shared 42 loving years of marriage filled with family and friends. Together they raised their two children Heather and Jay. Jay was most proud of his two grandchildren MaggieMae and Ian, enjoying attending sports, celebrations, and the many fond memories in between.
Jay is survived by his daughter Heather and his son in law Leo, whom he had a very close bond with. He is also survived by his grandchildren and sister Carolyn Vaisin. He is sadly predeceased by his son Jay and wife Jessie. Jay was blessed later in life to have met and shared companionship with Gerri Badalucca, enjoying walks and time shared together. He also leaves behind his favorite girl, his pet dog Sandy.
Fair winds and following seas.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, August 22, from 4 to 7pm at the Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, Mystic. Funeral Services will be held on Friday, August 23, beginning at 9am at the Dinoto Funeral Home with procession to St. Mary Mother of the Redeemer Church, 69 Groton Long Point Road, Groton for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am. Military Honors by the U.S. Navy will be rendered following the Mass. Private burial will be held in the family plot at Elm Grove Cemetery at a later date.