It is with heavy hearts and a profound sense of loss that we bid farewell to Jay Wilburn, a cherished member of our horror community who left us unexpectedly in 2022. Jay was not merely a writer; he was one of us—a kindred spirit, a generous soul, and a beacon in the world of horror literature. I had the privilege of collaborating with Jay on multiple occasions, and each interaction was a testament to his creativity, dedication, and amiable nature.
His writing, marked by a unique blend of terror and humanity, resonated with readers and fellow writers alike. Jay’s words possessed the power to transport us to realms of both fright and introspection, leaving an indelible mark on the genre he loved.
Beyond his literary prowess, Jay was a pillar of support within our community. Whether offering advice to budding writers or fostering camaraderie at horror conventions, he epitomized the spirit of unity that defines us. Jay’s warmth and genuine enthusiasm for the genre made him not just a colleague but a friend to many.
Tragically, Jay’s untimely departure has left a void that cannot be filled. As we mourn the loss of a talent gone too soon, we are also compelled to extend our support to his surviving family, particularly his son, who now faces the challenges of navigating life without his father.
In honor of Jay Wilburn’s memory, let us come together as a community to provide assistance to his son during this difficult time. Whether through financial contributions, emotional support, or sharing cherished memories of Jay, every gesture counts. Let us rally around one of our own, demonstrating the strength of our community and the enduring bonds forged through our shared passion for horror.
Details on how to contribute to Jay’s son’s well-being will be shared through various platforms. Let us channel our grief into compassion, ensuring that Jay’s legacy lives on not only in his works but also in the support we offer to his loved ones.
In Jay’s departure, we lose more than a talented writer—we lose a friend, a mentor, and a cherished member of our horror family. May his words continue to echo in the corridors of our imaginations, and may his spirit inspire us to uphold the sense of unity he so passionately fostered within our community.
