Jay Edward Johnson

Jay Edward Johnson, 68, of Gilroy, California, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2026.

Jay was born in East Orange, New Jersey, to Dwayne and Shirley Johnson. His family later relocated to Sacramento, California, and a few years afterward settled in Los Gatos, where Jay grew up and made many cherished memories with friends.

Jay’s career journey began in audio-visual work and truck driving before he found his true calling in law enforcement. He proudly served as a police officer for 30 years with the Milpitas Police Department, where he built lifelong friendships and found deep purpose in serving his community. After retiring in 2010, Jay founded his own truck safety consulting business, Jay Johnson and Associates, in downtown Gilroy. He also served for several years as a South County fire commissioner.

Jay is survived by his wife of 25 years, Sharon; his daughter, Traci; his son, Ryan; his sister, Janelle; his brother, Kevin; and his mother, Shirley.

Jay and Sharon created a beautiful life together on their small ranch, surrounded by horses, dogs, cats, burros, rabbits, and parrots. Jay had a special love for his German Shepherds, and his most recent companion, Bella, was rarely far from his side.

Throughout his life, Jay embraced adventure. He rode his Harley across the country multiple times, competed in Cowboy Mounted Shooting on his trusted steed, Tommy Lee, enjoyed visiting with friends, and loved traveling.

A Celebration of Life will be held on February 26, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Gilroy Elks Lodge.