Jay Curtis Campbell

Jay Curtis Campbell, age 82, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2026, at 11:20 a.m. at Circles of Life Residential Care and Memory Care in Queen Creek, Arizona.

Jay was born in Chicago, Illinois, on August 31, 1944. He was adopted by Zephaniah Beall Campbell, MD, and Frances (Miller) Campbell, and later moved with his family to the Phoenix area, where Dr. Campbell served as a primary OB/GYN physician and head of the tissue committee at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Phoenix. Jay attended Kenilworth Elementary School and graduated from Orme Ranch School, a college-preparatory school in Mayer, Arizona.

Jay studied mathematics at the University of California, Berkeley, and spent the majority of his career working in computer technologies for companies including Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC), Compaq, and Hewlett-Packard in the Phoenix area.

While at DEC, Jay managed the IT staff for the Tempe plant before later transitioning to the technical support team, where he helped design and implement complex server, storage, and networking solutions for major customers throughout the western United States. Jay was widely respected for both his technical expertise and his thoughtful approach to business and problem-solving.

Jay deeply enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his stepchildren, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, all of whom lovingly called him “Ponka.” He treasured opportunities to have the family together and loved seeing his grandchildren come around to visit. Jay was known for being smart, funny, and endlessly conversational. He loved golf, baseball, and was an avid reader with a curious mind that stayed active throughout his life.

In retirement, Jay continued pursuing his interests by attending weekly golf lessons at Apache Wells Golf Course in Mesa and participating in the weekly “Voice of Many” Toastmasters group, where he enjoyed socializing and practicing public speaking.

Jay was preceded in death by his father, Zephaniah, and his mother, Frances.

He is survived by his “bride” and beloved wife, Martha (McKellips) Campbell; his stepchildren, Laura Jean (Robbi) Rederick, Lisa Mae (Scott) Runzo, Bill (Jo) McKellips, Betsy McKellips (Chad Jaenik), and Stephen McKellips; 16 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; and his sister, Judy (Campbell) Flynn.

Those who knew Jay will remember him for his intelligence, humor, generosity with conversation, and the genuine joy he found in being around the people he loved. He built a respected career, a close-knit family, and a life full of learning, stories, and connection. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association, whose mission is to advance global research, promote early detection and risk reduction, and provide quality care and support for those affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

Friends and family are invited to attend the Celebration of Life service at Meldrum Mortuary, 52 N. McDonald, Mesa, Arizona, on Sunday, May 17, 2026, beginning at 11:00 a.m.