John Cecil Hobbs

A proud Marine, Father, Grandfather, Brother, and Miner, John Cecil Hobbs, lovingly known as Jay Hobbs by family and friends, passed away peacefully yesterday, July 18, 2025, at approximately 3 p.m. at his home in Wallins, Kentucky. His two daughters, Heather Hobbs and Amber Lawson, were by his side.

74 years old, Jay sadly lost his fight with cancer.

Born in Harlan, Kentucky, on September 10, 1950, Jay was the firstborn of 14 children.

He was preceded in death by his father, Alexander Spurlock, and mother, Wilma Jean Hobbs Hively. He is now reunited with many loved ones, including two children, Jamie Lively and Kelly Hobbs, siblings: Ernie Hobbs, Catherine Hobbs, Sandie (Hobbs) Middleton, Mitchell Hobbs, Evelyn (Hobbs) Middleton, Don Hobbs, and Lisa (Hobbs) Evans.

Jay joined the Marines after graduating Cawood High School and was stationed in Saigon. After serving his country for four years, he returned to Harlan, Kentucky, where he spent over 30 years working in the coal mines.

Jay loved animals, especially horses. He also enjoyed boating and loved spending time with friends and family on Norris Lake in Tennessee.

Jay is survived and will be forever missed by his daughters: Heather Hobbs (Denver Simpson) and Amber Lawson (Zachariah Burgan) , grandchildren: Payton Hobbs, Hunter Blanton, Hudson Simpson, and 2 others, siblings: Cheryl Hobbs Varney, Oceana Hobbs, Frank (Brandy) Laws, Delores Hively, Beverly Haynes, Mark (Patience) Hively, along with over 50 nieces and nephews.

Jay will be honored by the Honor Guard for his military service at 3 p.m. Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Rest Haven Cemetery in Harlan.

Jay will be remembered by family and friends at a Celebration of Life Service on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 4 p.m. at Mount Pleasant Funeral Home in Harlan, Kentucky. Anyone who knew or loved Jay is welcome to attend.

Mount Pleasant Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mr. John Cecil Hobbs.