Evan Jay Brenchley Bankhead, 84, passed peacefully away surrounded by his family at his home in Providence, Utah February 1, 2011. Jay was born at home in Wellsville, Utah March 10, 1926. Oldest of four children born to Evan H. Bankhead and Pearl Brenchley Bankhead. Jay grew up on the family farm in Wellsville and was taught the value of a hard work ethic, which he carried through out his life. He attended school in Wellsville and graduated from South Cache High School, class of 1944. He joined the United States Navy in June of 1944, serving in the South Pacific Theater during World War II, where he saw many of the Pacific Islands. Shortly after returning from the navy, Jay married his sweetheart, Betty Riggs in the Idaho Falls Temple, October 9, 1946. Together they made their home in Wellsville for over 57 years, later moving to Providence, Utah where they have been enjoying retirement from farming. Through out Jay's life he had been involved with farming and agricultural endeavors, civic affairs and numerous church callings. Having been a farmer by trade, Jay and Betty operated the oldest continuing family farm in Cache Valley. Jay served as President of the Wellsville- Mendon Water Conservation District, for over 15 years, President of the South Cache Water Users, maintained and regulated the Hyrum Dam for the South Cache Water Users. He served as chairman for the Blacksmith Fork Soil Conservation, District Chairman, Zone Commissioner and President of the RC & D for many years. He received recognition from the Governor of Utah for his many years of dedicated service. Jay and his wife Betty served two missions, the first to the San Diego, California Mission and the second mission to the Peoria, Illinois Mission. They also served as temple officiators in the Logan, Utah Temple for 9 ½ years. His greatest accomplishments and joy were his wife of 64 years and family which includes 16 grand children and 26 great-grand children. He is survived by his wife Betty, a son; Dale (Patty) Wellsville, daughter; Valoy Reese ( Rick) Benson, brother; Wayne (La Faye ) Bankhead and sister; Marla Bankhead. Preceded in death by his parents, daughter; Paulette, and brother; Gerald Bankhead.