Tacoma, Washington – Dr. Jordan (Jay) Murray Reifel, Jr. passed peacefully in the arms of his beloved wife, Patti, on April 7, 2024 at their winter home in Dana Point, California.

Jay was born a baby boomer in Pasadena, California, and graduated from San Marino High School (1968). As a 4th generation Pasadenan, he was lured by the tradition that is, The Rose Bowl, culminating an astonishing 65 consecutive trips to the “Grand Daddy” of them all. Though he could rattle off just about any sports statistic ever recorded, it was fishing that really occupied his mind, with the “art” of saltwater fly fishing becoming a lifelong passion.

He attended the University of Puget Sound where he received his bachelor’s degree in psychology (1972) and later his master’s and education with the emphasis on guidance and counseling (1975). He was president of the Sigma Nu fraternity and was listed in the “Who’s Who Among Students” in American Universities and Colleges (1971-1972).

While working in the Bethel school district, where he spent 24 years, he earned a doctorate in educational leadership from Seattle University (1989). His career included positions as a teacher, counselor, therapist, assistant principal, principal, and assistant superintendent. Jay was known for his servant leadership and crafting a future vision for access to post secondary education for students in Bethel, Tacoma, University Place, Puyallup, and Peninsula school districts. His dedication to academics and career pathways while promoting empathy and compassion will forever be his legacy, reminding us of the profound impact a caring leader can have on the lives of students and families.

Jay was active in many professional organizations at both the local and national level, often serving as president of the board of directors and presenting at national conferences.

His community involvement was extensive, as he was always motivated to “make a difference” and serve others in his community. He particularly enjoyed serving on the board of directors for the Tacoma Zoological Society (1992-1998).

The family, friends, and colleagues who remain will miss Jay dearly. Remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, he leaves behind a legacy cherished by those he touched. He is survived by his wife, Patti, two daughters, Emily Reifel and Hailey Mattson (Christian), his adoring grandsons, Jack and Alexander Mattson, and countless others he touched along the way.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made in Jay’s honor to:

THE JAY REIFEL SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Checks made out to: “Raymond James Charitable”
Mail to: Financial Insights Wealth Management
1551 Broadway, 6th Floor, Tacoma, WA 98402, 253-627-6010

A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, June 5th, 11:00
Christ Lutheran Church
8211 ~ 112th St. S. W., Lakewood, WA 98988

Reception will follow at the Tacoma Country and Golf Club
13204 Country Club Dr. S.W., Lakewood, WA 98998

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by News Tribune (Tacoma) on May 19, 2024.