BUCKLIN – Jay Lee Lewallen, 69, died Saturday, June 27, 2026, at his home in Bucklin.

He was born July 1, 1956, in Dodge City, Kansas, the son of Johnnie “John” E. and Janita L. (Kirkpatrick) Lewallen. He attended high school in Ford until its closing, at which time he transferred to Mullinville High School, graduating in 1974. He worked as a mechanic for Bucklin Tractor & Implement for 37 years before retiring on September 24, 2021.

On September 24, 1982, he married the love of his life, Donna Austin, in Bucklin. They shared 33 wonderful years together before her passing on January 5, 2016. Donna was the center of Jay’s world, and the time they spent together was what he treasured most.

Jay enjoyed the simple things in life. He was an avid fan of NASCAR and sprint car racing and loved fishing, shooting, tinkering, and taking country drives. He was known for his ornery smile, quick wit, and love of pulling pranks on family and friends. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and never met a stranger. He cherished time spent with his family, especially his granddaughters, and shared a special bond with his faithful dog, Monte.

Survivors include: his son, Jade Lewallen, Bucklin; his daughter, Lida Howard and husband Mitchell, Hays; two granddaughters, Aria and Winsley Howard; two sisters, Jana Lewallen, Jetmore, and Lori Bowser, Henrietta, Oklahoma; his mother-in-law, Patsy Austin, Medicine Lodge; a brother-in-law, Brian Austin, Medicine Lodge; a sister-in-law, Kelly Bettles and husband Clint, Hillsboro, Kansas; along with several nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; a brother, John Lewallen; a sister, Joy Kirkpatrick; his father-in-law, Keith Austin; and his beloved dog, Monte.

Memorial services will be at 10:00 a.m. Monday, July 6, 2026, at the Bucklin Free Methodist Church, 204 S. Ford, Bucklin, with Scott Tilley officiating. Private family inurnment will be held at a later date in Pleasant Valley Cemetery, north of Bucklin. There will be no public viewing, as cremation has taken place.

The family suggests memorials to the Steve King Foundation, as Jay was an avid supporter and fan of all things racing, in care of Minnis Mortuary, 1901 N. 14th Ave., Dodge City, Kansas 67801.