I grew up with all four Helfrick brothers. “Screaming Jay” was the oldest and the coolest. John’s passing in June 2022 represented the end of a talented family.

Sorry. Technology finally allowed me to find the most unusual friend from the past. Too late, I was a horrendous Grundon to his charismatic performance at Holy Cross, First to wear cowboy boots. What a loss.

Sorry for your loss. Jay was a unique and uniquely talented classmate at Holy Cross College. Memorable guy.

My fondest memory of Jay was when he sang for me. I don't remember the exact circumstances but he sang "Old Shep" for me and accompanied it on his guitar. No one else was there. It was just for me. Over the years, whenever I heard that song or found myself humming it, that very special memory of Jay would come to me. My condolences to all who held him dear. Jim

I played drums with Screamin" Jay senior year. He was my John Lennon

We were "lifetime " acquaintances. I hardly knew him, yet we spent 11 years in school together (and I attended 9 schools through college.) He was "sui generis", brilliant (Merit Scholar in HS), loved music (the one thing we could discuss without argument.) He was tall, a six footer in grammar school, and had the brains to match his size. We lived our lives thousands of miles apart for decades, yet at breakfast after our 40th HS reunion, the conversation seemed like time travel. To say that he was more perceptive than most would be an underwhelming understatement. He is unforgettable. May the good Lord bless and keep him. RIP

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.