Jason “Jay” Richard Campana, 1976–2025, “radiated kindness”

Jason “Jay” Richard Campana, 49, of Waltham passed away unexpectedly at his home on Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025.

Jay was the third son born to James and Irene Campana (Harris) on February 26, 1976, in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He grew up in Waltham with his three brothers on a quiet but family-filled cul-de-sac with hockey nets and go-carts everywhere. Jay attended the local elementary and middle school and went on to graduate from Waltham High School in 1994, where he was a proud member of the Waltham Hawks hockey team.

Even as a young boy, Jay showed his ability to fix things – snowblowers, motorcycles, even the latest Christmas toys for his nieces and nephews. In recent years, Jay used his skills and worked for the Department of Public Works in Watertown and Belmont.

Jay really felt the most at home in the outdoors. He was happiest fishing and floating in his kayak. Some of his most peaceful days were at the family’s log cabin in Bradford, New Hampshire. He loved it in all seasons – skiing, swimming, and spending time with his brothers. Even as a child, he could spend hours and hours in the woods near Lake Sunapee.

Jay was a gentle soul with a contagious and robust laugh. He radiated kindness without bringing attention to himself. He was a proud uncle of seven nieces and nephews and loved hearing about their accomplishments. It prepared him for the limitless love he had for his own daughter Riley.

Jay was always loved by so many, particularly his family, even though he could not always be understood. His warm smile and dimples will be remembered more than his struggle. Jay will be deeply missed and always in our hearts.

Jay leaves to cherish his memory, his beloved daughter, Riley Campana and her mother Christina Campana of Waltham. His loving and devoted parents, James and Irene Campana of Waltham, his siblings Shaun (Debra) of Waltham, Brian (Renee) of Waltham, and Adam of Woburn, and his nieces and nephews, Ty, Shelby, Jonathan, Natalie, Melanie, Abbie, and Lyla.

Family and friends are respectfully invited to gather and remember the love and laughter Jay shared with us all during visiting hours on Saturday, September 20, from 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

A celebration of Jay’s life will begin at 6:30 p.m. in The Mary Catherine Chapel of Brasco and Sons Memorial Chapels, located at 773 Moody St. in Waltham. Parking attendants will be on duty.

Those who wish to pay their respects to Jay and his family but are unable to attend are welcome to sign the family’s guestbook at www.BrascoFuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Jay to the New England Center and Home for Veterans or to the Herren Project.